Togo/Security : Togolese government aims to increase oversight on activities related to weapons

The Togolese government, under the leadership of President Faure Gnassingbé, is taking legal measures to enhance control over activities related to weapons. During the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, January 31, a draft law was examined and approved.

This concerns the draft law on the regime of arms and ammunition (MINAR), which has been modified to comply with regional and international standards, demanding stricter control over individual and collective possession of arms. This is aimed at effectively addressing security threats.

At the national level, according to the cabinet, this legal text on the regime of arms in Togo has been revised and updated to meet the country’s security objectives. Once validated by the national parliament, this draft law is expected to provide the necessary tools for competent services to exert effective and efficient control over activities related to weapons.

The new provisions will primarily allow national control services to better regulate the categorization, acquisition, and lawful use of weapons. Additionally, this draft law will strengthen efforts to combat the proliferation, circulation, and trafficking of arms, ammunition, and related materials.

This is a way to curb the illicit supply of weapons, prevent the acquisition of weapons by terrorists, and thus ensure the security of populations and their property.

Justine Akolatsey