An X-ray scanner with high penetrating ability and specifically designed for handling airport cargo will soon be installed at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra. The scanner, which is based on the x-ray imaging technology, THSCAN systems, adopts high-energy Electron Linear Accelerator (LINAC), and has high performance detectors among other features. With the installation of this scanner, which is different from the three others already in operation at the Aflao border, Takoradi and Tema ports, a pallet of goods can effectively be scanned within one minute, whilst image analysis and report making can be completed within fifteen minutes. The project is the brainchild of the Ghana Customs Inspection Company (GCIC), a joint venture between Ghana Link, Customs Excise and Preventive Services (CEPS) and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, PSD & PSI. The machine has the proven ability to help expose concealed items such as arms and ammunitions, as well as drugs and other prohibited goods. To prepare for the utilisation of the new system, a comprehensive 5-day training programme was recently organised in Accra for 30 staff members of GCIC, in the areas of systems operation procedure and introduction to software operation. Mr. Cheng Sen, an experienced Training Engineer, handled the sessions, which involved both theoretical and practical assessments. Source: Chronicle/Ghana