Private gun permits revoked • New strict re-registration process announced

Ghana has immediately revoked all permits for privately owned firearms, a drastic measure taken in response to a disturbing trend of licensed gun owners using their weapons for suicide. The Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, announced the decision, emphasizing the government's concern over this escalating issue.

Moving forward, a stringent re-registration process will be implemented for any individual seeking to own a firearm. This new regime mandates that applicants undergo comprehensive mental health assessments, drug testing, and rigorous training on the safe handling of firearms before their permits can be considered for renewal. The minister stated that the government observed with grave concern that legally acquired firearms were increasingly becoming instruments for self-harm.

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The government had observed with concern that individuals who legally acquired firearms were increasingly using them to commit suicide, hence the decision to revoke all existing permits with immediate effect.

This move follows the conclusion of the Gun Amnesty Programme, which aimed to curb the proliferation of illicit weapons by allowing individuals to voluntarily surrender or register firearms without fear of prosecution. The program was successful in its objective, leading to the seizure or surrender of over 4,000 unregistered firearms. Of these, more than 2,000 will be destroyed at an upcoming ceremony, while others will be processed for registration after thorough vetting.

Furthermore, the government has imposed a ban on private security organizations possessing or using firearms, citing violations where personal protection permits were misused for commercial security activities. Alhaji Mohammed-Mubarak assured that regulations would be strictly enforced to prevent such breaches. The government also plans to continue engaging with traditional authorities regarding the use of firearms in customary ceremonies, urging public support in the ongoing efforts to address the illicit weapon problem.

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Some operators had been acquiring firearms under personal protection permits but later using them for commercial security activities, contrary to the law.