Minority Caucus has expressed growing concerns over the increasing threats of piracy, drug trafficking, and money laundering under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, calling for urgent action to preserve the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful nations.
At a press briefing, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, stressed that Ghana’s safety and security must remain a top priority. “In the past eight years, Ghana has been consistently ranked as the second most peaceful country in Africa, ahead of nations like Australia and Canada in terms of crime rates,” Rev Fordjour noted. “It is crucial that under President Mahama’s leadership, Ghana does not become a safe haven for pirates, drug traffickers, or money launderers.”
National Security Concerns
The Minority also raised serious questions about a National Security operation conducted on February 9 in the Sapeiman area of Ga South Municipality. During the raid, authorities reportedly uncovered 12 containers containing gold bars and cash worth billions of dollars. However, despite widespread media coverage, National Security has not yet disclosed the full findings or taken action against those responsible. The Minority expressed fears that the assets could be misappropriated and called for greater transparency regarding the ongoing investigation.
Suspicious Aircraft Activity
In addition, the Minority highlighted concerns over two suspicious flights that recently landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra. AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B arrived from Gran Canaria, a region known for its links to drug trafficking and money laundering. Intelligence reports suggest the planes may have been carrying illicit substances, including cocaine, as well as cash. The Minority is calling for full disclosure of the cargo to reassure the public about airspace security.
Piracy Attack on Ghanaian Vessel
Another point of concern raised by the Minority was a pirate attack on March 27, in which the Ghanaian fishing vessel MENGXIN 1 was targeted. Pirates reportedly kidnapped the captain, chief mate, and chief engineer, all of whom were Chinese nationals. In response, the Minority urged the government to provide the Ghana Navy with Offshore Patrol Vessels, which they argue are necessary to secure the country’s waters. Rev. Fordjour noted that a previous attempt to procure these vessels had been opposed by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, leaving the country vulnerable to maritime threats.
Government Accountability
The Minority pledged to hold the government accountable on these critical national security issues. They stressed the need for immediate measures to prevent Ghana from becoming a hub for illegal activities, calling for greater transparency and cooperation to address these growing challenges.
As concerns mount, Ghana’s ability to maintain its reputation for peace and security is under scrutiny, with opposition lawmakers demanding swift action to safeguard the nation’s integrity.
Source:TheDotNews