Ghana: Terrorism-related security warning issued, May 17

Event

The Ministry of National Security issued a terrorist threat warning May 17. Officials cited security conditions in the region and recent attacks against neighboring countries and concluded that there was reason to believe that Ghana was being targeted. Authorities have requested heightened vigilance, including at mass gatherings and public and religious places, such as mosques and churches. No further precise intelligence was provided.

Increased security measures, including checkpoints, patrols, and random vehicle searches, are possible, notably in urban centers such as Accra. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence.

Context

The warning follows an attack by dozens of unidentified assailants against a security post along Togo's border with Burkina Faso in Savanes Region overnight May 9-10 and an increase in attacks in northern Cote d'Ivoire in 2021 and Benin in 2022. Groups linked with Al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have been implicated in these incidents. The threat of a further expansion southward into coastal West Africa, including Ghana, remains possible.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance across the country in the coming days, notably in urban centers. If possible, avoid places frequented by foreigners and crowded areas such as bars, pubs, public squares, transport hubs stations, as well as religious, government, diplomatic, and military buildings. Heed the instructions of local authorities; remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel