Fresh ammunition theft hits Ghana Armed Forces, Defence Minister confirms

Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr Omane Boamah, has confirmed a new case of ammunition theft within the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), sparking renewed concerns over the country’s internal security and the integrity of military oversight systems.

Speaking during a working tour of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Dr. Boamah described the development as “deeply disturbing,” noting that it marks the second such incident in a short span of time. 

Investigations into the previous 2024 case are still ongoing, but fresh intelligence points to the possibility of other, previously undetected thefts in earlier years.

“This is the second time in a relatively short period that such a disturbing discovery has been made,” the Minister stated, cautioning that stolen arms, if diverted into the wrong hands, could severely undermine national stability.

Dr. Boamah linked the proliferation of illicit weapons to growing insecurity in certain parts of Ghana, warning that such arms are often used to threaten state security and public safety.

A full-scale investigation has been launched, with both the military’s internal audit mechanisms and national intelligence agencies tasked to identify and apprehend those involved. Dr. Boamah emphasized that anyone found culpable—regardless of their rank or status—would be prosecuted without fear or favour.

As part of efforts to tighten security and improve military asset management, Dr. Boamah also visited the Ghana Military Academy and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. Closed-door meetings were held with senior military officials to review and reinforce existing protocols.

The Defence Minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to national security and urged both military personnel and civilians to remain vigilant, encouraging them to report any suspicious activity involving arms.