The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Gun Amnesty Secretariat, Dr Adams Bonaa, has issued a firm warning to individuals in possession of illegal firearms to voluntarily surrender or properly register their weapons before enforcement agencies begin strict compliance operations.

Dr Bonaa gave the caution during a courtesy call on the Asogli State by officials of the National Gun Amnesty Secretariat as part of a nationwide sensitisation and public education tour aimed at curbing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across the country.

The outreach programme is designed to engage traditional authorities, community leaders, stakeholders, and the general public, educating them on the legal requirements surrounding firearm ownership and the importance of cooperating with the ongoing gun amnesty initiative.

According to Dr Bonaa, the exercise forms a critical part of the government’s “Guns Down Ghana” campaign, a national effort focused on strengthening public safety, preventing violent crime, and promoting sustainable peace and security.

He stressed that the amnesty period provides a rare opportunity for individuals holding firearms—whether acquired legally or illegally—to regularise their status without fear of prosecution, urging the public to take full advantage of it.

“This amnesty is a window for everyone in possession of firearms to do the right thing. Those who choose to ignore this opportunity and fail to surrender or register their weapons should not be surprised when the law takes its full course,” Dr Bonaa cautioned.

He further emphasised that unchecked possession of firearms poses a serious threat to community safety and national stability, noting that responsible gun control is essential to Ghana’s peace-building efforts.

Speaking on behalf of Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Anikpi III, Deputy Chief of the Asogli State and Chief of Heve, expressed appreciation to the National Gun Amnesty Secretariat for the visit and the extensive public education being undertaken in the region.

Togbe Anikpi III described the initiative as timely and necessary, particularly at a period when peace and security remain central to national development.

He underscored the importance of firearm registration, noting that proper regulation of weapons is key to protecting lives and maintaining order within communities.

He assured the Secretariat of the full support and cooperation of the Asogli State, pledging that traditional authorities would continue to collaborate with state institutions to encourage compliance and promote a culture of peace among the people.

The National Gun Amnesty Secretariat has reiterated its commitment to working closely with traditional leaders, security agencies, and civil society groups to ensure the success of the amnesty programme nationwide