Foreign partners losing confidence in Ghana over insider crime leak concerns – Muntaka

Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has expressed concern that allegations of security personnel aiding criminal networks could harm Ghana's ability to receive valuable intelligence from international partners. The minister noted that doubts regarding potential insider involvement in criminal activities are now impacting Ghana's credibility in sharing sensitive information with foreign security agencies.

Muntaka stated that international partners may become hesitant to provide intelligence if they fear their information could be compromised or misused by individuals within the security services. "Our counterparts abroad are even beginning to doubt to give us some information because they trace it to an insider," he said.

At a security training program, Muntaka questioned why a vetted and trusted security officer would engage in criminal activities, suggesting that such behavior undermines the integrity of the security personnel entrusted with sensitive responsibilities. He stressed that if security personnel display such behavior, it could create uncertainty among Ghana's international partners about the safety of the shared intelligence.

The minister's remarks come after French customs seized nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine from a container of plastic waste at a port in Dunkirk, arriving from Ghana. Muntaka noted that such allegations could lead to questions about the security of intelligence shared with local agencies, potentially affecting the fight against organized crime.

Muntaka called for an end to the politicization of security matters, asserting that political affiliations should not interfere with investigations or protect individuals suspected of wrongdoing. He emphasized that mixing politics with security work could weaken public institutions and hinder the pursuit of justice.

In light of the cocaine seizure, Muntaka indicated that he would meet with the French Ambassador to discuss security cooperation between Ghana and France. He stressed the importance of addressing concerns surrounding alleged insider involvement in criminal activities to bolster the credibility of Ghana's security institutions and maintain the confidence of international partners.