The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, has warned that the illegal possession and misuse of firearms continue to drive armed robbery, violent crime and other criminal activities, putting public safety at risk.
In a Facebook post after the 8th National Arms Destruction Ceremony held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, under the theme, “Silencing the Guns Through Destruction for a Peaceful, Safe and Gun-Violence-Free Ghana,” she stressed the need to remove illegal weapons from circulation to protect lives and strengthen national security.
“Every illegal firearm removed from our streets is a life potentially saved,” she said.
COP Lydia Donkor explained that destroying illicit and obsolete firearms sends a clear signal that weapons used to commit crimes have no place in Ghanaian communities.
“The irresponsible possession and use of firearms continue to threaten lives, undermine public safety, and contribute to armed robbery, violent crime, and other criminal activities,” she said.
“Firearms are not symbols of power. In the wrong hands, they become instruments of fear, violence, and loss.”
She reaffirmed the CID’s commitment to fighting firearm-related crime through intelligence-led investigations, forensic analysis and close collaboration with local and international partners.
She said the Department continues to trace illegal weapons, dismantle criminal networks and strengthen efforts to stop firearms from reaching criminals.
“Through intelligence-led investigations, forensic examination, and public cooperation, we continue to strengthen our fight against gun-related crime,” she said.
COP Lydia Donkor also appealed to the public to support the fight against illegal firearms by refusing to acquire or keep unlicensed weapons.
She further encouraged people to report suspected firearm trafficking and other unlawful activities to the Police.
“Together, we can build a safer, more peaceful Ghana where communities are protected and future generations can thrive,” she added.
