Over 6,000 security applicants fail medical screening – Muntaka

The Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, says over 6,000 security applicants were disqualified after medical screening in Ghana.

He disclosed that the disqualifications followed expanded health checks introduced during the ongoing recruitment exercise to ensure fitness for service.

“We realised that the normal medical examination was not enough, so we introduced drug tests and mental health assessments to make sure those entering the service are fit for the task,” he stated.

Speaking on Pan African TV, Mr. Muntaka said the decision was necessary to protect the integrity and effectiveness of the security services.

The disqualifications, according to the Minister, were linked to drug use and mental health conditions detected during the screening process, which involved over 100,000 applicants nationwide.

According to him, the screening results showed that more than 4,000 applicants tested positive for drugs, while over 2,000 others failed mental health evaluations.

“You cannot put weapons in the hands of people who are not mentally stable or are under the influence of drugs. The work of the security services requires discipline, alertness and sound judgment,” Mr. Muntaka stressed.

The Interior Minister explained that the move forms part of efforts to strengthen professionalism and maintain high standards within Ghana’s security agencies, noting that officers must be prepared to handle pressure and emergencies responsibly.

The disclosure comes amid stiff competition for limited recruitment opportunities. Although over 100,000 applicants reportedly progressed to the medical stage, only about 5,000 positions are available across the security services.

The development has also sparked renewed conversations about substance abuse among the youth and the importance of mental health awareness, especially for people pursuing careers in sensitive sectors such as security.