GPHA Officers Captured in Viral Altercation with GIS Officers Reprimanded

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) says their security personnel who were involved in a scuffle with personnel of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) have been reprimanded for their action.

In a statement following the wide circulation of a video of the incident this week, the Authority condemned the action of its personnel as it noted that the situation could have been salvaged with a more prudent response.

“It, we recognize that it could have been handled more effectively to prevent escalation. GPHA prioritizes the safety and security of all stakeholders and condemns the behaviour displayed by both parties involved.

“GPHA takes full responsibility for the actions of our security personnel involved, who have since been reprimanded,” it said.

Cause
The GPHA in the statement said the misunderstanding evolved after the immigration officers refused to declare a package received from the vessel which contravenes Standard Operating Procedures established by the International Ships and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code and protocols.

The altercation first started on board MV MSC DYMPHNA and subsequently escalated to the immigration office at the Authority Building at Terminal 3.

To prevent future recurrence, the Authority said its management met with representatives from Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Maritime Authority to discuss the situation which has since been amicably resolved.

Additionally, it agreed to provide periodic education and reorientation of all state agencies in tandem with the evolving maritime security procedures and protocols.

“Moving forward, we emphasize the importance of adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and protocols by all State Agencies operating within our ports and urge all stakeholders to uphold the rules and regulations governing our ports and collaborate to preserve the integrity of our Ports,” it added.