Terror attacks likely in Ghana – UK advices citizens

The UK government has issued a travel advice to its citizens intending to travel to Ghana to be extra careful because terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Ghana.

“Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners,” the advice said.

It explained further: “Terrorist groups associated with al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Islamic State of Libya and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) present a threat in the region”, adding: “These groups have demonstrated capability and intent by mounting attacks against security forces and civilians in several countries, most recently in Burkina Faso and Mali”.

“While there have been no recent attacks in Ghana, you should remain vigilant, particularly in northern border areas and in busy public locations (including beach resorts, hotels, cafes, restaurants and places of worship) across the country.

“There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally, against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.”

The High Commission further noted that while most visits to Ghana are trouble-free, crime does occur.

It said in recent years, reported crime has increased, particularly over the Christmas period with criminal activity ranging from petty street crime to violent crime which can occur at any time.

The High Commission has, therefore, warned travellers to take sensible precautions, be particularly vigilant in public areas, and take care when travelling by road.

It added that localised outbreaks of civil unrest can occur at short notice, and can become violent, sometimes involving weapons and, so, Brits who find themselves in such areas, should remain vigilant, exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities.

The High Commission also advised its nationals who are resident in Ghana to register with the National Identification Authority (NIA) and get a non-citizen Ghana card.