In a recent statement, the Ghanaian government firmly rejected claims made by Reuters regarding Islamist militants using northern Ghana as a safe haven.
The report in question suggested that jihadis from Burkina Faso were discreetly utilizing Ghana’s northern territories for logistical and medical support.
However, Ghana’s security ministry has denied the allegations, stressing instead on its considerable counter-terrorism measures and ongoing efforts to secure its borders.
Ghana shares a 600-km (372-mile) border with Burkina Faso, with the latter battling an insurgency that has been linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State.
Since the insurgency began, thousands have been killed and displaced millions across West Africa’s Sahel region south of the Sahara.
The controversial Reuters story had cited seven sources, including Ghanaian security officials and regional diplomats, who said authorities in Ghana appeared to be feigning ignorance to the insurgents crossing over from Burkina Faso into its territory to stock up on food, fuel, explosives, and to get its injured fighters treated in hospital.
Most of the sources had pleaded anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the issue and Ghana’s Information Ministry has refused to comment.
