GACL introduces hotline, ‘name and shame’ policy to tackle extortion at airports

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The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), in collaboration with key airport stakeholders, has announced a series of measures aimed at eliminating extortion and begging by personnel operating at airports across the country.The decision was reached during a high-level stakeholder facilitation meeting held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, as part of efforts to improve passenger experience and strengthen accountability.Among the measures introduced is a “mystery shopping” initiative, under which individuals found engaging in extortionary conduct will be publicly identified through appropriate media channels.GACL said the “name and shame” approach is intended to deter misconduct, stressing that staff found culpable will face disciplinary action and will no longer be permitted to work at any airport or within its environs.To support the initiative, management has established a dedicated hotline—0542175636—for passengers to report incidents of extortion via calls, WhatsApp or SMS.Complainants are expected to provide details including the date and time of the incident, the name of the officer involved, the agency concerned and the location where the incident occurred.GACL also reminded travellers that they have the right to request the Airport Identification Card of any individual claiming to represent an agency at the airport to verify their identity.Passengers were further encouraged to obtain receipts for all payments made at the airport and report any suspicious transactions or misconduct through the hotline.The initiative has the backing of several agencies and service providers operating at Ghana’s airports, including the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Police Service, National Security, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division), Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, private security companies, ground handling firms and concessionaires.GACL said the support of the travelling public is essential to safeguarding the reputation of Ghana’s airports and advancing the country’s vision of becoming the preferred aviation hub and leader in airport business in West Africa.