The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has warned travellers against attempting to bring firearms and ammunition into Ghana without obtaining prior approval from the Ministry of the Interior.
The caution comes as Customs officials at the Accra International Airport intensify checks on restricted items being brought into the country by travellers.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, a Revenue Officer at the Accra International Airport Preventive Unit, Conrad Attu, said firearms and ammunition are subject to strict regulatory requirements and cannot be imported as ordinary personal effects.
He explained that any traveller seeking to bring such items into Ghana must first obtain the necessary permit from the Ministry of the Interior before commencing the importation process.
“Before any person would import any arm or ammunition, you will have to get a permit from the Ministry of Interior prior to importation,” he said.
Mr Attu said Customs officers would inspect firearms and ammunition upon arrival and verify the validity of the required permit before allowing the items to proceed through the appropriate process.
“We would also make sure we conduct the examination and confirm if you have the necessary permit,” he added.
He further cautioned that obtaining a permit does not necessarily mean the items would be immediately released upon arrival.
According to him, firearms or ammunition may still be detained at the airport while Customs and the Ministry of the Interior complete the necessary procedures.
The GRA has therefore urged travellers to secure all required approvals before travelling with firearms or ammunition to Ghana.
The Authority said compliance with the regulatory requirements would help travellers avoid unnecessary delays, detention of their items and other complications at the airport.
