Travel warnings from the Canadian embassy, the US and the UK, indicating imminent threats of terrorist attacks in the country has moved minority members in parliament to demand immediate action from government to assure the safety of the public.
The countries are pointing to an increase in pick pocketing, extortion from police officers at checkpoints and fraud in the West African country.
Canada for instance has warned its citizens travelling to Ghana of an imminent terror attack in Ghana.
“There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist targets could include shopping malls, government buildings, public areas such as bars, restaurants, hotels and sites frequented by Westerners. Be aware of your surroundings in public places,” the alert issued by the Canadian High Commission stated.
Speaking to the media in parliament, minority spokesperson on Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa charged government to take immediate steps to assure safety of Ghanaians.
“I think that it is important for the Ghanaian government to respond to this, if there is a looming terrorist attack. If there is, how are citizens being alerted and what is being done to ensure that we are safe,” Hon. Ablakwa said.
Below is the alert issued by Canada
Safety and security
You should exercise a high degree of caution in Ghana and maintain a high level of security awareness at all times.
Crime
Pick-pocketing, purse snatching and attacks by individuals on motorbikes are increasing in Accra and its surroundings, including areas around the High Commission of Canada. Violent crimes have also increased, including armed robbery.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone or displaying signs of wealth. Home invasions are on the rise. Affluent areas in Accra where foreigners live are targeted and some thieves carry firearms.
There have been recent cases of violent robberies often targeting foreigners travelling in taxis at night. If you have to use a taxi, ensure that there is no other passenger in the car and try to limit trips to day-time hours.
When possible, carry photocopies of your travel documents and keep the originals in a secure place.
There is an increase in crime Tema, Kumasi, and the Upper East and West regions. Armed robberies of vehicles are a growing concern in areas such as Takoradi, Kumasi and other parts of the Ashanti region. People working in the mining industry should be particularly cautious. Armed attacks have also been reported along the Accra-Tema and Accra-Kumasi-Tamale highways. You should remain vigilant at all times.
Thefts occur at Kotoka International Airport in Accra and in hotels across the country. Be wary of unsolicited assistance from uniformed porters or officials appearing to work at Kotoka International Airport.
Official airport employees wear identification cards bearing both their name and photograph. If you are being met at the airport, you should confirm the identity of your driver.
Source: GhanaWeb
