NIA arrests six, terminates appointment of seven others over alleged extortion at Galaka registration centre

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has arrested six staff members and terminated the appointments of seven others over alleged extortion during a recent free Ghana Card registration exercise in Galaka, Upper East Region. According to a press release from NIA Head Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, the arrested staff members were identified by parents as demanding money before registering their children.

The NIA stated that seven other team members were dismissed following an internal review that found them aware of the misconduct but not reporting it. The alleged extortion took place during the free registration exercise for children aged 6-14, which aimed to provide services without unauthorized charges. The NIA emphasized that no staff member was authorized to demand unapproved payments from applicants or their parents.

The Authority stated it takes misconduct allegations seriously and will enforce disciplinary measures to ensure fair and professional service to the public. They urged the public to report suspected misconduct through official channels.