The recent incident which involved Nhyiaeso MP who removed a gun after being threatened by a ‘toy gun’ in Kumasi sparked a lot of discussions and left many Ghanaians worried.
However, Security Analyst Mr. Adib Saani highlighted the dangers and implications of the widespread availability and misuse of such items.
His remarks shed light on the legal, security, and societal aspects of this pressing issue, offering practical solutions to mitigate the risks involved. He stated;
“There’s something in gun ownership called the law of proportionality. If you own a gun and feel threatened, it depends on the nature of the threat. For example, if someone chases you with a whip, you are not in a position to run the person down. [However], if someone chases you with a knife, machete, or gun, whether it is a toy or not, you are permitted under law to take action.”
Mr. Adib Saani Security Analyst
He cautioned that individuals cannot easily distinguish between real and toy guns in high-pressure situations. He emphasized;
“An individual with a real gun could gun down someone wielding a toy gun because they feel threatened.”
Mr. Adib Saani Security Analyst
Meanwhile, the Police released a statement after 26 people were picked up, indicating section 207 of the Criminal Offenses Act 1960 cautioning the youth to desist from such acts. However, they are still lacking the nuance needed to address these challenges of modern gun-related threats. Saani added;
“These toy guns could be used to intimidate political opponents during elections. It’s alarming that they are becoming so readily available.”
From the intelligence I’ve gotten, they even ran out of stock in Kumasi. Market women have come to Accra looking for these guns they also run out of stock in Accra, and some are going to Togo and other parts of the sub-region just to bring them in.”
Mr. Adib Saani Security Analyst
Legal and Political Dimensions of Gun Ownership
Touching on the issue of politicians and firearms, Saani acknowledged the threats politicians face but called for responsible conduct. He emphasized;
‘For a politician of his caliber, I am not surprised and this is quite synonymous with a lot more of these politicians. They move out with guns even sometimes in their cars. I am not surprised whatsoever.’’
Mr. Adib Saani Security Analyst
However, he stressed the importance of adhering to the law, which prohibits the open display of firearms without the IGP’s approval.
Albeit, legally whether it is a toy gun or not, brandishing a gun is unlawful. The person against whom they are brandishing may not know if it is a toy and may take counteractive measures.
To address the growing issue, Saani proposed a multi-pronged approach, emphasizing intelligence and law enforcement.
According to Saani, instead of going after market retailers, we should use intelligence to identify the wholesalers and importers. If we deal with them at the top, we can disrupt the entire supply chain. Albeit he charged;
“When we arrest these individuals, we have to deal with them and pull their ears hard to serve as a deterrent to others.
… We have to curb corruption. Because if individuals are able to bring these items in, not just using the smuggling route but even using the approved routes. Yet they are able to drive persons who are supposed to make sure [these guns don’t] come in.”
Mr. Adib Saani Security Analyst
Saani also called for sensitization efforts to educate the public about the risks associated with toy guns and the legal consequences of misuse.
Saani warned that the current situation is symptomatic of broader security challenges in Ghana. He lamented the inefficiency of outdated laws and the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms.
He highlighted that the 1960 law is archaic and needs updating to address modern challenges. He noted that we need a new framework to regulate the arms space.
Mr. Adib Saani’s analysis underscores the urgency of addressing the issue of toy guns in Ghana.
From the legal ambiguities surrounding gun ownership to the national security risks posed by the proliferation of toy guns, his perspective calls for immediate and coordinated action.
According to Saani, through intelligence-led operations, stricter enforcement of laws, and anti-corruption measures, Ghana can curtail the spread of these items and prevent their potential misuse.
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