The Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Francis Palmdeti, the Ahafo Regional Commander of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has lauded the contributions of sister-security services for a peaceful Election 2024 in the Region.
He emphasised that the peaceful conduct of the General Election reflected the hard work of the various security services, saying "we are now proud of the role the GIS plays in safeguarding the local communities during that critical period".
DCOI Palmdeti gave the commendation when he addressed the 2025 maiden meeting of the District and Sectors Commanders of the service at Goaso, the regional capital, and praised the officers and personnel of the service.
He said the unwavering commitment of the security personnel in strengthening the integrity and professionalism did not go unnoticed and praised them for the high sense of professionalism they exhibited.
That contributed to the smooth and successful conduct of the Election 2024, DCOI Palmdeti added.
He emphasised that immigration management required a multi-faceted approach demanding stronger collaboration with sister-security services, local government institutions and international partners.
The Regional Commander therefore encouraged the commander of the service to build and strengthen deeper collaborations and good working relationships with the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana National Fire Service.
That would enhance intelligence sharing and coordinated operations, DCOI Palmdeti stated, urging that "our responsibilities continue expanding beyond traditional duties, requiring innovation, adaptability, and collaboration".
He observed that the influx of people in the region was a wakeup call for the command to be extra vigilant and proactive in their immigration enforcement efforts and activities in ensuring compliance with immigration laws. "Hotels and company inspections remain essential in identifying and addressing irregular migration and ensuring that expatriates have the required permits and to prevent unlawful employment practices," DCOI Palmdeti stated.
He urged the service commanders to intensify inspections and surveillance and maintain professionalism, and respect for human rights too.
DCOI Palmdeti said that transnational crimes such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, cybercrime and terrorism threatened national security and urged the commanders to intensify public awareness creation in local communities on the dangers of those crimes.
"Prevention through education is one of our strongest tools in combating transnational crimes," he stated, and urged the commanders to actively engage schools, churches, and recognized Associations.
The Regional Commander also urged them to collaborate effectively with chiefs and queens, opinion leaders and stakeholders in tackling transnational crimes.