General News of Friday, 27 March 2020

Source: gbcghanaonline.com

Coronavirus: More Immigration officers deployed to beef up security at Ghana’s Eastern Frontier

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The Volta Regional Command of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has deployed more officers to beef up security at Ghana’s Eastern Frontier with the Republic of Togo against illegal entry, especially at the several unapproved routes along the border.

The Volta Regional Commander of the GIS, Deputy Commissioner Peter Claver Nantuo disclosed this when the Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Lesta visited the Command to look at how well they are helping to stem the spread of Coronavirus.

The Ghana-Togo border has several approved and unapproved routes refered to as ”Beats and Pillars” by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

Smugglers who live in communities at both sides of the borders use such routes.

After the closure of Ghana’s main borders to stop the spread of Coronavirus, much is expected from the security agencies whose mandate is to prevent illegal entry of people through such routes.

The Volta Regional Commander of the GIS, Deputy Commissioner Peter Claver Nantuo noted that 40 Nigeriens and eight Nigerians, who entered Ghana illegally were deported.

He said the Command will do everything necessary as part of its mandate to secure the borders against the influx of migrants and illegal entry by citizens as part of national response to stop the spread of Coronavirus disease.

Deputy Commissioner Nantuo cautioned officers of the Service against comprising their mandate and professionalism, saying that they will be dismissed when caught.

The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Letsa disclosed that three specimen suspected cases of coronavirus sent to the Noguchi Memorial Institute from various health facilities in the region tested negative.

He urged Officers of the GIS to sacrifice for the good of the country at this crucial moment.

Dr Letsa also advised them to comply with the basic safety protocols recommended by the World Health Organisation at all times.

Meanwhile, a five-member Immigration Communication Task Force has been inaugurated by the Volta Command of the GIS to coordinate and deliver prompt information about activities along the borders.