- The Netherlands government donated a full-body scanner and baggage scanner to NACOC to enhance airport security
- Equipment classified as intrusive scanners offers deeper, more advanced screening than existing systems
- Netherlands Minister Fort Van Osteen emphasized the donation reflects strong bilateral cooperation in security and justice
The Netherlands government has donated two state-of-the-art airport passenger scanners to the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to bolster Ghana’s fight against drug trafficking.
The equipment—a full-body security scanner and a baggage scanner, both classified as intrusive scanners—offers more advanced and comprehensive screening capabilities than the systems currently in use.
Mr. Fort Van Osteen, Netherlands Minister of Justice and Security, said the donation underscores the Netherlands’ strong commitment to supporting Ghana in strengthening border security and combating transnational drug trafficking. He highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two countries, built on cooperation, shared responsibility, and mutual respect.
“We fully recognise the challenges agencies like NACOC face as criminal networks grow increasingly sophisticated. Investments in modern technology, such as these scanners, are essential to reinforce airport security and protect the travelling public,” he said.
Mr. Van Osteen added that the Netherlands remains committed to deepening collaboration with Ghana in security, justice, and capacity building, aiming to make societies safer and more resilient.
Ghana’s Minister for Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, explained that the existing airport scanners detect prohibited items and trigger alerts but noted that the newly supplied intrusive scanners provide a deeper, more comprehensive level of screening.
“Previously, NACOC operated an intrusive scanner that had become outdated. Acquiring modern scanners with enhanced functionality is essential to strengthening our fight against drug trafficking through Ghana’s ports,” he said.
Mr. Mubarak expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for the support, assuring that the equipment would be properly maintained and operated by well-trained personnel. “With this assistance, we are confident that the use of our ports for illegal drug transportation will be significantly reduced,” he added.
Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, NACOC Director-General, thanked the Netherlands government on behalf of the Commission and reaffirmed NACOC’s commitment to combating illegal drug trafficking.
