Accra’s Passport Head Office at Ridge has been temporarily shut down following a security breach involving a group of frustrated Zongo youth demanding urgent passport processing for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.
Unrest Over Hajj Preparations
The incident, which occurred on the night of Friday, May 9, reportedly saw over 20 agitated individuals arrive on motorbikes, overwhelming the limited security personnel on duty. According to sources, the group demanded immediate passport releases, ignoring attempts by staff to explain the ongoing processing delays.
“No explanation to the angry mob was satisfactory to them,” a staff source told Citi News, describing a chaotic scene that forced the Director of Passports and a foreign consultant hired to fast-track Hajj passports to flee the premises for their safety.
Strain on 24-Hour Passport Service
This incident comes just weeks after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a 24-hour passport service aimed at cutting down processing times to 15 days, clearing backlogs, and providing a more efficient service for time-sensitive travel needs like Hajj. The initiative, which includes a week-long shift system and courier delivery, was expected to ease pressure on the passport office, but Friday’s disruption highlights the challenges of meeting high-demand periods.
Security Shortfalls Exposed
Despite these improvements, Friday’s incident has exposed critical gaps in security at the Ridge office. Sources revealed that only two police officers were present during the attack, with no apparent backup to handle the unexpected influx of aggrieved youth.
“They were overwhelmed by the numbers. There were over 20 well-built men who came on motorbikes,” the source added.
During a visit to the office on Saturday, May 10, Citi News observed that security remained sparse, with only one plainclothes officer visible at the gate. Two foreign nationals were also seen exiting the premises, adding to the sense of disarray.
Impact on Pilgrims and Travelers
The temporary closure has left many passport applicants frustrated, including Fati Musah, who arrived to collect her chip-embedded passport but was turned away.
“Some Muslims are due to leave for Hajj on Monday, while the rest depart on Tuesday. Any further delays could affect my travel,” she said.
As the Ridge office remains closed, it is unclear when full services will resume. An official complaint has yet to be filed with the police, raising further questions about security planning ahead of this critical travel period.
Meanwhile, some Hajj pilgrims are expected to depart Accra on Saturday, May 10, via a direct flight from Tamale, despite the ongoing passport delays.
