Foreign nationals attempting to fraudulently obtain Ghanaian passports will be swiftly arrested and prosecuted, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has warned.
Speaking on measures to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s passport system, Mr Ablakwa disclosed that authorities have apprehended 379 foreigners over the past 10 months for attempting to acquire Ghanaian identity documents. He said the confiscated Ghana Cards were evidence of growing attempts by non-citizens to beat the system.
“It is clear that some people who are not Ghanaians want to lay hands on our passports,” the minister said, stressing that possessing a Ghana Card or birth certificate does not guarantee eligibility for a passport.
Mr Ablakwa explained that beyond documentation, applicants undergo a rigorous vetting process conducted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This includes in-person interviews and enhanced screening designed to verify nationality and credibility.
He noted that passport officers are specially trained to detect inconsistencies and false claims. “There is an extra layer of vetting. Our officers are well trained, and they know when applicants are not being truthful,” he said.
The minister said the arrests demonstrate that recent reforms are working and should boost public confidence in the passport system. He issued a firm caution to foreigners, urging them not to attempt to obtain Ghanaian passports unlawfully, warning that authorities “will get you.”
The government says it remains committed to protecting the credibility of Ghana’s travel documents.
Watch video: