The Upper East Region is facing significant challenges related to the proliferation of small arms among civilians, according to recent remarks by Victor Abo-Ame Akanbonga, the Regional Programs Officer for the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
In an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Akanbonga emphasized the seriousness of the situation, revealing that an estimated 2.3 million small arms are currently in civilian hands within the region.
“A search conducted by the commission estimated that 2.3 million small arms are in the hands of civilians, which means that it’s a very serious issue in the region,” he said.
He linked the prevalence of these weapons to various criminal activities, particularly those arising from land and chieftaincy disputes. He pointed out that illicit arms are being smuggled into the region from neighboring countries and noted the presence of local manufacturers in the Bawku area, which exacerbates the problem.
Despite being relatively new in the region, the commission, he said, has been actively engaged in efforts to address the issue. He highlighted a collaboration with the German Armed Forces and technical advisory groups, where advanced technologies are being employed to retrieve illicit weapons.
The commission has also focused on educating and sensitizing border communities, which are primary entry points for these arms.
Mr. Akanbonga stressed the importance of the ‘see something, say something’ policy advocated by National Security. “The ‘see something, say something’ policy by National Security is a very important message to all citizens of this region,” he said.
He clarified that in cases where a legally registered firearm is inherited following an owner’s death, the weapon cannot be transferred to family members. Instead, families are required to report the situation to the commission or the police, who will then conduct a thorough vetting process to determine the appropriate handling of the weapon.
“When someone legally registers their weapon and the unfortunate happens, it cannot be transferred to any family members. The family needs to urgently report it to the commission or the police,” he urged.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
