Securing Ghana’s cash-in-transit operations: A long-overdue reform

The Ministry of the Interior’s recent roll-out of comprehensive guidelines for the importation, retrofitting, usage, and decommissioning of Armoured Bullion Vehicles (ABVs) marks a critical turning point in Ghana’s fight against attacks on cash-in-transit (CIT) operations.

Between 2021 and 2023, at least five armed attacks targeted bullion vans, claiming three police lives and resulting in millions of cedis lost to robbers. These incidents exposed the risks of using soft-skinned vehicles for transporting cash, despite directives from the Bank of Ghana mandating fully armoured vehicles.

The new guidelines cover certification for importation, operational and maintenance standards, crew training, vehicle tracking, inspection, personnel qualifications, safe retrofitting, and proper decommissioning procedures. They come with a 45-day ultimatum (Dec 8, 2025 – Jan 21, 2026) for all operators using soft-skinned vehicles to comply or withdraw, after which nationwide enforcement, prosecution, and sanctions will be enforced.

The Inspector-General of Police has been tasked with forming an Enforcement Unit, reporting to a multi-agency Implementation Committee comprising the Ghana Police Service, Bank of Ghana, Ghana Gold Board, and other stakeholders.

While regulations are vital, experts stress that consistent, firm, and corruption-free enforcement is equally critical. Weak enforcement has historically undermined Ghanaian policies, and this reform must not suffer the same fate.

The value of these reforms extends beyond protecting cash—it safeguards human lives, including police officers, drivers, escort personnel, and civilians. Stakeholder consultations included the Ghana Police Service, Ministry of Finance, Customs Division of GRA, Ghana Association of Banks, and private security operators, reflecting a collaborative approach to national security.

The Ministry’s message is clear: the era of soft targets is over. Institutions and operators who fail to comply risk legal repercussions and endanger lives. Ghana now has a defining moment to show how seriously it values security, professionalism, and human life in its financial logistics sector.

BY TIMES REPORTER

🔗 Follow Ghanaian Times WhatsApp Channel today. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q
🌍 Trusted News. Real Stories. Anytime, Anywhere.
✅ Join our WhatsApp Channel now! https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q