The Ministry of the Interior has announced the immediate revocation of all existing firearm licences nationwide, effective Tuesday, June 23, 2026, requiring all firearm owners to reapply under a new licensing framework.

The directive forms part of a broader reform agenda aimed at strengthening gun control measures and enhancing public safety across the country. Under the new regime, applicants will be required to undergo mandatory mental health evaluations, drug screening, and structured firearms training before licences are granted.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak raised concerns about the growing misuse of legally acquired firearms, noting that some licence holders have used their weapons for purposes beyond those for which they were originally authorised.

He attributed the situation to weaknesses within the current licensing system.

As part of the government’s efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal weapons, the Minister also announced plans to destroy more than 2,000 firearms that were either surrendered voluntarily or seized under the national gun amnesty programme.

The announcement comes days after the Ministry suspended the operating licence of Kantanka Security Services Limited with immediate effect following a shooting incident that left former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo injured.

According to the Ministry, the suspension stems from alleged regulatory breaches, including the use of unauthorised uniforms and the possession and use of firearms and ammunition by some personnel while on duty.