Accra: Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, Minister of Interior, has called on West African security stakeholders to intensify efforts to combat illicit firearms trafficking in the sub-region. "Let us build a West Africa where illicit firearms no longer flow freely across our borders, where security forces are equipped and empowered, and where our people live without fear." He emphasized the need for unity, integrity, and urgency in addressing this issue during the opening of the three-day KAFO VI Operational Training Regional Planning Meeting.
According to Ghana News Agency, the meeting, organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), brought together experts, INTERPOL, Customs officials, and Small Arms Commission representatives. The goal was to strengthen strategies against arms trafficking and enhance regional security. KAFO VI is a cross-border initiative tackling firearms trafficking, terrorism, and other illicit activities across Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Togo.
Alhaji Muntaka commended UNODC for its Global Firearms Programme and its partnership with regional governments in combating illegal arms trade. He also expressed gratitude to Germany for its financial support, describing it as "essential and commendable." The Minister warned that the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) had become a driver of violence, escalating threats across West Africa.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Alhaji Muntaka noted that illicit firearms contribute to terrorist attacks and violent crimes. He stressed that traffickers exploit regional divisions and weaknesses, undermining collective peace. The meeting was framed as a call to action, reaffirming the region's commitment to bold interventions.
Alhaji Muntaka noted that insights from Operation KAFO V regarding smuggling routes and enforcement gaps would inform KAFO VI. He emphasized that KAFO VI aims for strategic prevention, empowering law enforcement with data, training, and cooperation mechanisms to act decisively.
