Interior Minister Revokes All Firearm Permits, Orders Nationwide Re-Registration
The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced the immediate revocation of all existing firearm permits across Ghana and directed firearm owners to re-register their weapons under a new nationwide registration exercise.
According to the Minister, the directive forms part of efforts to strengthen the regulation of firearms, improve national security, and ensure that authorities maintain accurate and up-to-date records of legally owned weapons in the country.
Speaking on the matter, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak stated that the government is committed to enhancing oversight within the firearms licensing regime to prevent abuse and ensure that all weapons in civilian possession can be properly accounted for.
Under the new arrangement, individuals and institutions with legally acquired firearms will be required to undergo a fresh registration process within a designated registration window to be announced by the relevant authorities. The exercise is expected to verify ownership details, update records, and assess compliance with existing firearm regulations.
The Interior Ministry noted that the move is not intended to penalize lawful gun owners but rather to create a more efficient and transparent database that supports law enforcement and national security operations.
Security analysts have welcomed the decision, arguing that periodic reviews of firearm permits are necessary to address emerging security challenges and reduce the risk of illegal firearm circulation.
The Ministry is expected to release detailed guidelines on the re-registration process, including registration centres, documentation requirements, and deadlines for compliance.
Firearm owners have therefore been advised to cooperate fully with the exercise and monitor official communications from the Ministry of the Interior for further updates.
The announcement marks one of the most significant reforms to Ghana’s firearm licensing system in recent years, as government intensifies efforts to improve public safety and tighten control over weapon ownership nationwide.
