The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, has announced that the Police administration will establish a firing range to train licensed firearm holders.

The training initiative will also encompass personnel from the police service, Ghana Immigration Service, and other relevant bodies. Dery emphasized that stringent legal measures will be taken against individuals possessing firearms without licenses.

In an interview on August 1, Dery commended the Police for their swift action in apprehending suspects responsible for a bullion van attack in Ablekuma, resulting in the death of an officer.

He highlighted public collaboration with the Police in sharing information, attributing increased confidence in the police force.

Dery outlined ongoing efforts to register arms within security agencies and revealed plans for a shooting range where licensed individuals will be trained.

He also reiterated the commitment to address illegal firearms possession through legal means.

Regarding the proliferation of illegal arms, Gyebi Asante, Deputy Director of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, pointed out the porous nature of Ghana's borders as a contributing factor.

He noted that conflicts in neighbouring countries facilitate the entry of weapons through weak borders. Asante also highlighted the involvement of conflict entrepreneurs sponsoring illegal arms activities.

Recent arrests by the Police on July 25, 2023, in connection with a deadly clash in the Bono Region led to the apprehension of 14 suspects.

The group is accused of shooting two individuals during the altercation while guarding a timber concession. Police recovered eight pump action guns, a cutlass, and a knife during the arrests.

All suspects are currently in Police custody, aiding investigations. They are scheduled to appear before the court on July 27, 2023, for legal proceedings.