The National Identification Authority (NIA) has intensified its crackdown on foreign nationals attempting to illegally acquire the Ghana Card, warning that those caught will face prosecution, imprisonment, and eventual deportation.
The move follows a wave of reports from financial institutions and concerned citizens about suspicious individuals allegedly infiltrating the country’s national identification system.
According to Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, Head of Corporate Affairs at the NIA, several non-Ghanaians have been apprehended while attempting to fraudulently register for the Ghana Card which has become the primary ID for accessing banking, healthcare, and other essential services in the country.
“We’ve received reports from individuals, financial institutions, and well-meaning Ghanaians about foreign nationals visiting registration centres with the intent to illegally access our citizen database,” Mr. Darlas stated.
He confirmed that one individual has already been convicted and is currently serving an eight-month jail term, while 13 additional cases are under active prosecution including a high-profile case involving seven Nigerian nationals.
“Just last week, we were at the Dansoman Circuit Court with seven Nigerians who attempted to register for the citizen card. We’re due back in court on Wednesday, August 6, and we’re hopeful of securing convictions,” he added.
Once convicted, foreign offenders will be deported after serving their prison terms, he emphasized.
NIA Strengthens Surveillance and Legal Collaboration
In response to these incidents, the NIA has stepped up security protocols and surveillance at its registration centres. The Authority is working closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Ghana Immigration Service and national security operatives, to track and arrest individuals attempting to bypass the registration requirements.
Officials say the increasing use of the Ghana Card as a universal form of ID for public and private services makes safeguarding the integrity of the database a matter of national security.
“This is not just a registration issue, it’s a national security concern. We cannot allow our citizen registry to be compromised,” Mr. Darlas stressed.
Public Urged to Be Vigilant
The NIA is calling on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious behaviour at registration centres. The Authority has set up communication channels for whistleblowers and pledges to take swift action on credible tips.
“We are counting on the support of every Ghanaian. If you see something, say something. It is the responsibility of all of us to protect the integrity of our national identity,” Mr. Darlas concluded.
