Ghana and the Netherlands have taken a significant step toward strengthening cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime, following the formal handover of a funding agreement to procure new full-body security scanners for the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
At the handing-over ceremony in Accra last Friday, the Netherlands’ Minister of Justice and Security, Mr. Fort Van Oosteen, noted that the support reflects his country’s strong commitment to helping Ghana enhance border security and combat transnational drug trafficking.
“We fully recognise the challenges that agencies like NACOC face as criminal networks become more sophisticated,” he said.
He added that the Netherlands remains committed to deepening collaboration with Ghana in security, justice, and capacity building, expressing confidence in continued partnership toward making both societies safer and more resilient.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Ghana, the Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, expressed appreciation to the Netherlands and emphasized on the impact the new scanners will have on national security efforts.
He assured that once acquired, the scanners will be deployed effectively to curb drug trafficking.
The collaboration highlights shared concerns of both nations over the growing threat of narcotics trafficking and reinforces their commitment to enhancing justice and security.
The renewed partnership is expected to support broader regional initiatives aimed at dismantling drug networks and strengthening border control measures across West Africa.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
