In a significant stride towards combating the illicit proliferation of small arms and ammunition in Ghana, a total of 29 packs of shotgun cartridges were intercepted during a security operation at the Ghana-Togo border at Aflao on Tuesday, 8th April 2025.
The operation, which led to the arrest of two individuals attempting to traffic the ammunition across the border, was led by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) in close collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, Customs Division of the GRA, Ghana Immigration Service and Defence Intelligence of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The arrest followed checks conducted along an unapproved route, referred to as Beat 7, where 46-year-old Nyameglo Kossi Attitsogbe, identified as the main suspect, was arrested while transporting the concealed ammunition on a tricycle operated by the other suspect, Yameglo Kossi.
Upon inspection, 29 packs—each containing 25 rounds—of AAA Redstar shotgun cartridges were discovered hidden in four sacks alongside clothing and other personal effects. The ammunition was reportedly en route from Aflao, Ghana to Lome, Togo.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the main suspect, Nyameglo Kossi Attitsogbe, had purchased the ammunition from a licensed arms and ammunition dealer based in Accra, who was found to be non-compliant with regulatory guidelines and had sold quantities exceeding the legally permitted limit.
Following their arrest, the suspects were arraigned before the Denu-Torkor Circuit Court on Thursday, 10th April 2025, where they were remanded into Police custody. They are scheduled to reappear before the court on 24th April 2025.
NACSA continues to work closely with investigators to aid in identification of any other individuals involved in the illicit trade and trafficking of arms and ammunition.
This interception underscores the critical importance of cross-agency collaboration in addressing the growing threat of illicit arms and ammunition trafficking, and reinforces the need for heightened vigilance across border communities.
The Small Arms Commission calls on all licensed arms and ammunition dealers to strictly comply with the regulations governing their operations, as adherence to these regulations is critical in preventing the diversion of arms and ammunition, which could fuel organized crime and conflicts.
Safeguarding Ghana’s peace and security is a collective responsibility. Our efforts depend on the valuable information provided by the public. If you witness anything suspicious or have any information regarding arms, speak up and help protect our nation. Contact National Security on 999, the Ghana Police Service on 18555, or the Small Arms Commission on phone or via WhatsApp on +233 (0) 59 907 0944.
Together, we can ensure a safer future for all.
By Darryl Amoatey
