The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, has warned that the irresponsible possession and use of illegal firearms continue to fuel armed robbery, violent crime and other criminal activities, posing a serious threat to public safety.

In a post she made on Facebook after the 8th National Arms Destruction Ceremony, held on Thursday, July 9, 2026,  under the theme “Silencing the Guns Through Destruction for a Peaceful, Safe and Gun-Violence-Free Ghana,” she said removing illicit firearms from circulation was critical to protecting lives and improving public security.

“Every illegal firearm removed from our streets is a life potentially saved,” she said.

COP Lydia Donkor said the destruction of illicit and obsolete firearms sends a strong message that weapons used to facilitate crime have no place in Ghanaian communities.

“The irresponsible possession and use of firearms continue to threaten lives, undermine public safety, and contribute to armed robbery, violent crime, and other criminal activities,” she said.

“Firearms are not symbols of power. In the wrong hands, they become instruments of fear, violence, and loss.”

The CID Director-General said the Criminal Investigations Department remains committed to tackling firearm-related crime through intelligence-led investigations, forensic analysis and collaboration with both national and international partners.

According to her, the Department continues to trace illicit weapons, dismantle criminal networks and strengthen measures to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of criminals.

“Through intelligence-led investigations, forensic examination, and public cooperation, we continue to strengthen our fight against gun-related crime,” she said.

She also called on the public to support efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms by refusing to acquire or possess unlicensed weapons and by reporting suspected firearm trafficking and other illegal activities to the Police.

“Together, we can build a safer, more peaceful Ghana where communities are protected and future generations can thrive,” she added.