The Minister of Interior Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has revoked all permits and licences for the private use of firearms in Ghana with immediate effect.

At a press brifig today, the Minister said the decision follows serious concerns over loopholes in the old registration system.

These include mental health issues, drug abuse, and poor handling of firearms by some licence holders.

To him, under the new directive, all individuals and institutions currently in possession of private firearms must surrender them to the nearest police station. They will then be required to re-register under stricter conditions before any licence can be reissued.

New requirements for future licences:
1. Mental Health Test: Applicants must be cleared by mental health professionals.
2. Drug Screening: The Narcotics Control Commission will conduct drug tests.
3. Firearms Training: The Ghana Police Service will provide mandatory training across all 25 police regions. No licence will be issued without proof of training.

He added that all 25 regional police commands and NACOC offices have been activated for the exercise.

The Minister urged Ghanaians to cooperate, stressing that public safety must come before individual convenience.

Report by Bernard K Dadzie Greater Accra Region