The Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, Mr Rolf A. Olson, has commended the government of Ghana for facilitating the extradition of several Ghanaians who are facing criminal charges in the U.S.
He said the collaboration between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Ghanaian security agencies strengthens the friendship between the two countries, particularly in the realm of security.
Mr Rolf A. Olson made these remarks last Friday in Accra during the graduation ceremony of 35 officers from the Counterterrorism Directorate of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
The officers were taken through a six-week training programme in counterterrorism investigations, counterterrorism law, intelligence operations, interview techniques, and courtroom evidence handling, which was sponsored by the U.S. government, and also donated laptop computers and printers to support the NIB investigative functions.
Mr Olson noted that in recent months, Ghana has successfully extradited several high-profile transnational criminals to face justice in the U.S. for crimes related to cyber fraud, money laundering, and narcotics trafficking.
He emphasised that this demonstrates the Ghanaian government’s strong commitment to the rule of law and its determination to ensure that no individual is above the reach of justice, which ultimately contributes to the safety of both countries.
“The United States commends the Mahama administration for its outstanding bilateral cooperation in this area. Extradition cases are not always straightforward, but with both parties committed to due process and timely actions, they can often be resolved successfully.
We remain steadfast in our support for Ghana’s efforts to hold all individuals accountable under the law, regardless of their status or position,” he stated.
Additionally, Mr Olson indicated that the training of the officers reaffirms the U.S. commitment to ensuring Ghana’s security personnel receive the support, not limited to logistics, in improving their security operations in order to ensure stable and peaceful conditions in West Africa.
“The threats you face are adaptive, resilient, and dangerous. But so are you. Stay disciplined, stay coordinated, and never forget the duty you carry, to your communities, your agency, and your nation.
Let me reaffirm that the United States remains committed to supporting Ghana’s leadership in countering violent extremism and transnational crime. Together, we are at our strongest, smartest and safest” Mr Olson underlined.
Moreover, he emphasised that the training represents a significant milestone in U.S.-Ghana security cooperation and underscores the shared commitment to combating terrorism through enhanced investigative capabilities and adherence to international legal standards, adding,” the training programme reflects the U.S. government’s ongoing dedication to building partner capacity in West Africa’s counterterrorism efforts.”
Apart from the training, the Embassy also donated laptop computers and printers to support the NIB investigative functions.
The Director General of the NIB, Mr Charles A. Kipo, in his remarks, mentioned that the training and equipment provided would significantly enhance the capabilities of the personnel, enable them to better address the complex security challenges the country faces and ultimately contribute to a safer and more secure environment for the citizens.
He also said the gesture demonstrates the strong partnership and commitment both countries shared in areas of security, adding that the training session has been a resounding one, which has equipped the Bureau in improving its mandate.
BY BERNARD BENGHAN
