STORY BY IRENE KABUKIE KWAO –

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has dismissed seven members of its registration team and secured the arrest of six others over allegations of extortion during the free Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged between six and 14.

The alleged misconduct occurred at the Galaka registration centre in the Upper East Region, where some personnel are accused of demanding money from parents before registering their children.

In a statement issued on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the NIA disclosed that the six individuals were arrested by the Bawku West District Police following complaints from parents who identified them as the personnel allegedly involved in the practice. The suspects are currently assisting the police with investigations.

The Authority also announced the termination of the appointments of seven additional members of the registration team for allegedly having knowledge of the misconduct but failing to report it to the appropriate authorities.

According to the statement, the decision followed an internal review of the alleged extortion at the registration centre.

The NIA reiterated that the Ghana Card registration exercise is free and must be conducted strictly in accordance with approved procedures.

It emphasised that no staff member has the authority to demand unauthorised payments from applicants or their parents as a condition for accessing registration services.

The Authority further assured the public that it remains committed to addressing misconduct within its operations and will take appropriate disciplinary measures to safeguard the credibility of the national identification registration process.

It has consequently encouraged members of the public to report any suspected extortion or unprofessional conduct through its official reporting channels.