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GACL introduces hotline and “mystery shopping” to fight airport extortion

From Ghanaian Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is implementing new measures to combat extortion by airport personnel.
  • A "mystery shopping" system and a dedicated hotline will be introduced to identify and report offenders.
  • GACL aims to improve airport standards and protect Ghana's image as a leading aviation hub.

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is launching a two-pronged strategy to eradicate extortion and begging by airport staff. The initiative follows a high-level stakeholder meeting in Accra, where participants agreed on decisive actions to curb the illicit practices.

A key component is the introduction of a "mystery shopping" system. Under this program, individuals will secretly evaluate the conduct of airport personnel. Those found engaging in extortion will face a "name and shame" campaign, publicly identifying them through media channels. GACL stated that convicted staff will be subject to disciplinary action and barred from working at any airport or its vicinity.

To facilitate passenger reporting, GACL has established a dedicated hotline, 0542175636. Passengers can report incidents via phone call, WhatsApp, or SMS, providing details such as the officer's name, agency, date, time, and location. This hotline covers personnel from various agencies, including immigration, customs, police, and airlines, as well as airport concessionaires.

GACL stressed that passengers have the right to request identification from any airport official and should obtain receipts for all payments. The company is collaborating with stakeholders to enhance airport standards and bolster Ghana's reputation. Public cooperation in reporting misconduct is deemed crucial for building confidence in the country's airports and positioning Ghana as a premier aviation hub in West Africa.

The control of online profiles aims to ensure that no one represents a risk to the safety and security of the United States.

— State Department spokespersonA spokesperson for the State Department explained the purpose of the expanded social media checks for visa applicants.
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Originally published by Ghanaian Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.