Be vigilant, proactive in enforcement efforts — DCOI Palmdeti

The Ahafo Regional Commander of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Francis Palmdeti, has charged officers of the service to be vigilant and proactive in their enforcement efforts to identify and resolve illegal migration.

He explained that the increasing movement of people into the region since its creation underscored the need for them to be vigilant and proactive in their enforcement efforts.

DCOI Palmdeti was speaking at the maiden Districts and Sector Commanders meeting of the GIS at Goaso in the Ahafo Region last Monday.

He reminded them of the places where their inspections were essential in identifying and addressing illegal migration, ensuring that expatriates had the required permits, and preventing unlawful employment practices.

Crimes

DCOI Palmdeti said transnational crimes such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, cybercrime and terrorism posed significant threats to national security.

He expressed the need for them to educate their communities on the dangers of crimes and their consequences on society, and called for engagement with schools, churches and recognised associations.

DCOI Palmdeti urged the officers to collaborate with local leaders and stakeholders to create awareness and encourage community participation in reporting suspicious activities.

"Prevention through education is one of our strongest tools in combating transnational crimes," he added.

Professionalism, discipline

The GIS Ahafo Regional Commander urged the officers to intensify inspections and maintain professionalism and respect for human rights.

He further encouraged them to also embrace innovation, uphold discipline, strengthen their enforcement efforts, and deepen engagement with communities as well as strive to instil professionalism, integrity, and respect for the chain of command among the rank and file.

"We must remain steadfast in upholding ethical standards of our service, ensure that our officers conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the GIS,” he stated, adding,

"Without discipline, our effectiveness diminishes, and public trust erodes."

DCOI Palmdeti, therefore, asked them to familiarise themselves with the service's Action Plan for 2025-2026 document and integrate its provisions into their daily activities.

He explained that the plan, which outlined priorities, targets, and key performance indicators, should serve as their strategic roadmap.

Challenges

DCOI Palmdeti mentioned inadequate tools, logistics and infrastructure as some of the challenges the command faced in its line of duty, urging the men and women officers, however, that “Limitation of resources must not limit our impact."

He charged the officers to be innovative in their approach by making good use of available resources in addition to seeking partnerships and collaborations to enhance their work.

"Their well-being, morale and continuous capacity development must be a priority," he stated, encouraging the district commanders to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, teamwork and mentorship within their respective commands. 

Writer's email: biiya.ali@graphic.com.gh