A 2025 Global Organised Crime Index report has identified illegal arms trafficking as a growing problem in Ghana, with Accra and Kumasi emerging as key markets for illicit weapons.

The report said Kumasi is known for its local gun-manufacturing centres, where skilled craftsmen produce quality weapons that contribute to the spread of illegal arms.

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It noted that the availability of affordable raw materials and the attractive prices of locally manufactured guns make the business highly profitable.

According to the report, demand for illegal weapons is no longer limited to communities traditionally involved in hunting and poaching.

It said illicit arms are increasingly being sought in both urban and rural areas, where rising crime is threatening the safety and livelihoods of residents.

“Arms trafficking is a notable and growing problem in Ghana, with Kumasi and Accra serving as key markets for illegal weapons. Kumasi, renowned for its gun-manufacturing centres, boasts skilled craftsmen who contribute to the proliferation of quality weapons,” it said.

The report also found that criminal networks are involved in the illegal arms trade within Ghana and across its borders.

These networks, it said, connect international arms traders with local buyers, allowing illegal weapons to move through Ghana and to other countries.

Beyond firearms, Ghana was identified as a major source of commercial explosives used in conflicts in the West African sub-region, particularly in Mali and Burkina Faso.

The report said the growing availability and movement of illegal weapons and explosives remain a concern for Ghana and neighbouring countries.

“The availability of affordable raw materials and attractive retail prices make gun manufacturing a highly profitable venture. The demand for illicit arms extends beyond traditional communities participating in hunting and poaching to urban and rural areas where rising crime rates threaten safety and livelihoods.

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“Criminal networks are involved in arms trading within Ghana and across its borders, connecting international traders and local purchasers. Ghana is also a principal source of commercial explosives used in sub-regional conflicts, particularly in Mali and Burkina Faso,” it added.

Read the full report below:



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