Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has expressed concern over the growing threat of drug abuse, human trafficking and irregular migration, describing them as major security challenges requiring urgent national attention.

He made the remarks during a stakeholder engagement in Ho, where he called on religious leaders, traditional authorities and community members to support government efforts to combat crime and protect vulnerable people.

Mr Muntaka disclosed that the Ghana Immigration Service rescued 714 victims of human trafficking in 2025 and arrested 103 suspected traffickers during operations across the country.

He said investigations indicate that all the rescued victims entered Ghana through the Volta Region, particularly via the Aflao and Akanu border corridors, often using unauthorised routes to avoid detection.

The minister noted that this underscores the need for stronger border surveillance and closer cooperation between communities and security agencies to identify suspicious activity.

He also defended the continued use of inland security checkpoints, describing them as important tools in addressing trafficking, smuggling, organised crime and potential security threats.

While acknowledging public concerns about delays and instances of misconduct by some officers, he said government is introducing reforms and technology-based screening systems to improve efficiency and professionalism.

Mr Muntaka further raised concern about the rising abuse of illicit drugs among young people, describing it as a serious threat to national security and social development.

He said some parts of the Volta Region have become areas of concern due to the cultivation and distribution of illegal substances, adding that international agencies have also raised concerns about the circulation of drugs linked to Ghana.

The minister appealed to churches, mosques and traditional leaders to intensify public education on drug abuse and trafficking, stressing that the fight against narcotics requires community involvement in addition to security enforcement.

He urged citizens not to shield criminal activity behind religious institutions or traditional shrines, and assured that security agencies would continue acting on credible intelligence while respecting the rights of all individuals.