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GIS Officer Investigated for Illegal Ammunition Transport

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. vestigated-for-illegal-ammunition-transport.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 10:43 GMT by Ghanaweb.com

Ghana Immigration Service Officer Handed Over to Police Amidst Ammunition Transportation Investigation

A senior officer of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) Edward Adablah, has been handed over to the Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for investigation into the alleged illegal transportation of a significant consignment of ammunition. The incident, which occurred on November 2, 2023, has sparked considerable public interest and prompted swift action from both the GIS and the Police. This article summarizes the events, investigation details, and emerging context surrounding the case, drawing from reports published on GhanaWeb and related sources.

The Incident and Initial Findings:

According to initial reports, ASI Adablah was found to be transporting a large quantity of ammunition in a government-registered vehicle – a Toyota Land Cruiser with the registration number GT 6868-20. The ammunition was discovered during a routine check at a barrier on the Aflao-Accra route, near Sogakope in the Volta Region. The specific quantity initially reported was 600 rounds of ammunition, though later reports clarified the consignment to be significantly larger.

The GIS immediately initiated internal investigations and subsequently handed ASI Adablah, along with the vehicle and ammunition, over to the Police CID for a more comprehensive and thorough investigation. This handover demonstrates the GIS's commitment to cooperating with law enforcement and ensuring accountability within its ranks. A statement released by the GIS emphasized that the service does not condone any acts of illegality and is fully cooperating with the police to get to the bottom of the matter.

Details of the Ammunition Consignment:

Further investigation, detailed in a GhanaWeb follow-up report, revealed the actual consignment consisted of 600 live cartridges of AA ammunition. These are typically used in pump-action shotguns. The crucial detail highlighted is that ASI Adablah did not have authorization to transport such a quantity of ammunition. He claimed to be transporting the ammunition on the instructions of a “top military officer” whose name he initially refused to disclose.

This claim, coupled with the scale of the consignment, immediately raised red flags. The ambiguity surrounding the source of the instruction and the lack of proper documentation or authorization are central to the ongoing investigation. It’s important to note that while the officer claimed instruction, the Military High Command has emphatically denied any involvement or authorization regarding the transportation. This denial adds another layer of complexity to the case, suggesting the officer might be attempting to shield someone, or is acting independently.

Police Investigation and Emerging Narratives:

The Police CID has taken the lead in investigating the matter, focusing on several key areas. These include:

• Identifying the source of the ammunition: Determining where the ammunition originated from, whether it was legally purchased, and if any protocols were bypassed during its acquisition.
• Verifying ASI Adablah’s claims: The police are actively working to verify the officer's assertion about instructions from a “top military officer.” This involves interviewing individuals within the military and examining communication records. The military's denial makes this aspect of the investigation particularly crucial.
• Establishing the intended destination: Investigating where the ammunition was being transported to and the purpose for which it was intended. This line of inquiry is critical in determining the potential motive behind the illegal transportation.
• Examining ASI Adablah's background and activities: A thorough background check on the officer, including his professional history, personal life, and any potential connections to criminal activities.

GIS Response and Internal Measures:

Besides handing over the officer, the GIS has initiated its own internal disciplinary procedures. The service has assured the public that it will not shield any personnel found to be involved in wrongdoing. This commitment to transparency and accountability is vital for maintaining public trust in the GIS. The GIS has also indicated that it will fully support the police investigation by providing any necessary information or assistance.

Public Concern and Political Ramifications:

The incident has understandably generated significant public concern, particularly given the sensitive nature of ammunition trafficking and the potential implications for national security. The timing, occurring shortly before potential heightened security needs due to upcoming political events, has further amplified anxieties. Opposition parties have called for a thorough and impartial investigation, and some have suggested the incident could be a prelude to political instability.

The case has also sparked debate about the level of security surrounding the transportation of ammunition in Ghana and the need for stricter regulations and oversight. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of other similar incidents going undetected.

Conclusion:

The investigation into the illegal transportation of ammunition by a GIS officer remains ongoing. While the GIS has taken swift action by handing the officer over to the police and launching an internal probe, several questions remain unanswered. The key lies in uncovering the source of the ammunition, verifying the officer's claims, and establishing the true intent behind the transportation. The outcome of the police investigation will be crucial in determining the full extent of the matter and restoring public confidence in the security services. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and robust security measures to safeguard national security and prevent the proliferation of illegal arms.