The Minister for the Interior has declared a nationwide gun amnesty as part of sweeping measures aimed at reducing the proliferation of illicit firearms and curbing gun-related violence across the country.
Speaking at a media briefing in Accra, the Minister said the growing circulation of unregistered weapons had contributed to armed robbery, violent disputes, land and chieftaincy conflicts, and domestic violence.
He noted that the situation has become alarming, with 1,219 robbery cases and 552 murder cases recorded in 2024, and 628 robberies and 340 murders reported by July this year.
He said the government, after broad consultations with the Ghana Police Service, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, security agencies, traditional authorities, religious leaders and civil society, is rolling out a Gun Amnesty Programme to help retrieve illicit firearms.
The amnesty, which runs from 1 December 2025 to 15 January 2026, allows individuals in possession of unregistered or illegal firearms to surrender them at designated collection points without fear of arrest or prosecution.
“This amnesty is a window of grace. Anyone who voluntarily hands over such weapons will be recognised as a patriot contributing to national peace,” he said.
He added that when the period ends, security agencies will intensify operations to retrieve illicit weapons, and persons who refuse to comply will face firm legal consequences.
Aside from the six-week amnesty, he also mentioned some security measures; Suspension of new firearm permits for importation and sale, a temporary ban on the use of firearms in traditional celebrations ongoing engagement with traditional leaders to regulate firearm use during festivals among others.
He said preparatory work has already begun, including consultative meetings with chiefs, regional ministers, arms dealers and ambassadors, public sensitisation campaigns and the training of amnesty officials.
The Minister appealed to traditional leaders, religious groups, community associations and the media to support the initiative and encourage the public to surrender illicit firearms.
“Ghana’s destiny is too precious to be stolen by bullets. Our families deserve laughter, not funerals. Let us silence the guns for our safety, for our children, and for our future,” he said.