In a high-stakes move to sanitise the nation’s security landscape ahead of a pivotal year, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has issued a final ultimatum to individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Adam Bonaa, speaking in an exclusive interview on JoyNews on Monday, December 29, 2025, warned that the current "grace period" is rapidly expiring.

The government, he noted, is prepared to deploy "full force" to arrest and prosecute anyone found with illegal weapons after the January 15, 2026, deadline.

The Commission has activated a nationwide amnesty period, designed to retrieve lethal weapons ranging from sidearms and shotguns to military-grade hardware like AK-47s, M16s, and G-series rifles.

Dr. Bonaa emphasised that the amnesty is a total "get out of jail free" card.

Even those who came by their weapons through illicit means, such as theft, are encouraged to come forward.

“The amnesty is clear that there is no arrest, there is no prosecution, and there is no call for interrogation. There is—you are free. Bring the weapon. The Commission says that even if you stole the weapon, surrender the weapon, and there will be no arrest,” Dr. Bonaa assured.

However, the consequences for defiance are severe. Under the current legal framework, the illegal possession of a firearm carries a hefty prison sentence.

“If you don’t and you are arrested, you will be prosecuted by the law and may be sent to prison for up to 15 years,” he warned.

To ensure the effectiveness of the retrieval exercise, the Commission has implemented a total freeze on the arms market across all 16 administrative regions and 25 police regions.

• Importation: All licences for the importation of arms and ammunition have been suspended.
• Commercial Sale: The sale of guns and ammunition in licensed shops has ceased for the duration of the amnesty.
• Usage: The declaration of the amnesty period also prohibits the firing of any weapons, including for celebratory purposes.

The ‘Firecracker’ Dilemma: 31st Night Under Watch

As Ghana prepares for "31st Night" church services and New Year's Eve festivities, Dr. Bonaa addressed the rampant sale of firecrackers and "knockouts", particularly at hubs like the Danquah Circle in Accra.

Despite their visibility on the streets, the Executive Secretary reminded the public that the ban on firecrackers remains in force.

“The ban on firecrackers is still in place. As far as the Commission is aware, it hasn’t been lifted. We are aware [people are using them], but it is something that is being discussed—how to tackle it,” he stated.

Dr. Bonaa revealed that high-level policy conversations are currently ongoing with the Ministry for the Interior and allied security agencies regarding not only firecrackers but also the proliferation of toy guns, which are often used in robberies due to their realistic appearance.