GPHA Addresses Viral Altercation Between Security Personnel and Immigration at the Port

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has responded to a recent altercation between its security personnel and the Ghana Immigration Service at the port. The GPHA has called on all stakeholders and state agencies operating within the port environment to adhere strictly to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and protocols outlined for work in the facility. It further urged collaboration among stakeholders to preserve the integrity of the ports.The altercation, which was captured on camera and went viral on social media, occurred on Monday, May 13, 2024, onboard MV MSC DYMPHNA. It involved an incident between GPHA security personnel and immigration officers, which escalated to the immigration office at the Authority Building at Terminal 3.The statement from GPHA explained that the incident arose from the immigration officers’ failure to declare a package received from the vessel, which contravened the ISPS code and protocols. GPHA emphasized that while some media reports sensationalized the incident, it recognizes that the situation could have been handled more effectively to prevent escalation.GPHA stated that it takes full responsibility for the actions of its security personnel involved, who have since been reprimanded. The management of GPHA has also met with representatives from the Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Maritime Authority to address the issue. An amicable solution has been reached, which includes periodic education and reorientation of all state agencies in line with evolving maritime security procedures and protocols.