GACL rolls out measures to end Airport extortion

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has introduced a set of measures aimed at eliminating extortion at airports nationwide, including the creation of a dedicated complaints hotline and a public disclosure policy for individuals found guilty of the offence.

The decision follows a high-level stakeholder engagement held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, to address what the company described as unacceptable extortion-related practices at airports under its management.

As part of the new measures, GACL announced plans to implement a “mystery shopping” programme to help identify personnel who demand illegal payments from passengers.

Officials found culpable after investigations will be publicly named through appropriate media platforms under a “name and shame” initiative designed to deter misconduct and promote accountability.

The company added that employees proven to have engaged in extortion will face disciplinary sanctions and will be removed from duty at all airports and their surrounding areas.

To make reporting easier, GACL has set up a dedicated hotline — 0542175636 — through which travellers can submit complaints via phone calls, WhatsApp messages or SMS.

“Management has provided a dedicated hotline, 0542175636 (Call, WhatsApp, or SMS), through which members of the travelling public can report any acts of extortion by personnel of the following agencies and service providers operating within our terminals,” the company stated.

The reporting channel will cover personnel from various institutions and service providers operating within airport facilities, including the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division), Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Ghana Police Service, National Security, Port Health officials, airlines, ground handling companies, private security providers, concessionaires, meet-and-assist operators and other airport service providers.

GACL advised passengers making complaints to provide key details such as the date and time of the incident, the identity of the official involved, the organisation they represent and the specific location where the incident occurred.

The company also reminded travellers that they are entitled to request identification cards from officials who claim to represent any agency operating at the airport.

Passengers were further encouraged to demand official receipts for all payments made and report any suspicious behaviour through the designated reporting platform.

GACL said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to protect the reputation of Ghana’s airports, improve passenger experience and strengthen the country’s ambition of becoming a leading aviation hub in West Africa.

Prince Antwi

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