Border security cooperation between residents of Aflao and Ghana Immigration Service officers is improving significantly, following sustained community engagement efforts aimed at strengthening vigilance along the country’s frontiers.
The Aflao Sector Commander of the Ghana Immigration Service, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Mark Asamoah Boakye, said border communities are now playing a more active role in identifying and reporting suspicious movements, especially involving irregular migrants.
He explained that continuous dialogue with local stakeholders—including Zongo communities, traditional leaders, transport operators, youth groups and commercial motorbike riders—has helped to reshape public perception of Immigration operations and improve collaboration.
According to him, misconceptions that Immigration officers were targeting specific religious groups have been largely addressed through consistent outreach and education.
“Previously, there were allegations that the Service was targeting Muslims, but they now understand that this was never the case. Our work is purely to protect the country and ensure security for all,” he said.
DCOI Boakye noted that religious leaders within the Zongo communities now better understand the social and security implications of harbouring irregular migrants and have taken steps to discourage such practices.
He added that some community members now proactively alert Immigration officers when they observe suspicious individuals, marking a shift toward community-based border security support.
Transport operators, particularly commercial motorbike riders, have also become key partners in surveillance efforts, often reporting or handing over individuals suspected of irregular entry.
“Initially, some riders would transport such persons without questioning, but now many voluntarily bring them to us when they suspect something is wrong,” he said.
He said this growing collaboration has not only strengthened border management but also reduced tensions and public criticism of Immigration operations within the municipality.
DCOI Boakye urged residents to sustain the partnership, stressing that effective border protection depends on shared responsibility between security agencies and the public.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to safeguarding national security while maintaining strong and respectful relations with all communities along the border.
