As terrorists attempt to expand their nefarious operations in the West Africa sub-region, Ghana has strengthened protocols at her borders to keep these miscreants at bay.
According to the deputy Minister for Interior, Naana Eyiah Quansah, “the sub-region is still troubled by acts of terrorism and political instability driven largely by coup d’états.
In response to these, the Ghana Immigration Service continues to strengthen operational protocols, especially along the borders, to ensure the security of the nation’s borders.”
Repercussions of these security breaches, the deputy Minister stated, is affecting all and sundry across the sub-region.”
Naana Eyiah Quansah was speaking at the passing-out parade of new recruits at the Immigration Service Mid-Country Training School (ISMTS) at Tepa, in the Ahafo-North Municipality in the Ashanti Region, where 454 officers passed out yesterday.
These recruits were carefully selected and taken through seven months of intensive para-military training, drills, academics and mental preparation.
Among the courses studied by the recruits were; Immigration Laws & Practices, Intelligence & Investigation, Border Security Management, Travel Documents Management and Ethics & Professional Standards, among others
Naana Eyiah Quansah disclosed that as part of measures to instill discipline, the GIS has interdicted twenty-seven officers over misconduct.
“Twenty-Seven (27) Officers and men have been interdicted for their alleged involvement in various offences against the professional and ethical standards set out in the Service”, she stated.
In an attempt to ensure discipline in the discharge of duties by immigration authorities, Naana Quansah indicated that the GIS has introduced a code of conduct to guide behaviors of immigration officers.
“To the Passing-Out Recruits, I hope you will show a high level of confidence, commitment, and professionalism in your work. I entreat you to exhibit the skills and knowledge acquired through your training and be disciplined in the performance of your duty. You are the frontline officers, so the work ahead is great.”
This direction, according to her, will go a long way to ensure discipline and uphold the professional and ethical standards expected of Immigration Officers.