The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has referred a case involving the alleged lodging of minors at a hotel in Accra New Town to the Ghana Police Service for investigation.
This follows widespread concern on social media about the safety and welfare of the minors involved.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Authority said the matter was reported to the Nima Divisional Police Command and that a team from its Head Office had been dispatched to the facility to ascertain the facts.
The delegation was led by the Deputy CEO in charge of Special Duties, Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, and included Deputy CEO of Operations Mr. Ekow Sampson, Greater Accra Regional Director Ms. Roberta Dawson-Amoah, and Deputy Director of Marketing Ms. Clara Nketiah.
“The visit forms part of our regulatory duty to ensure that all hospitality facilities meet required standards and operate within the law,” the statement noted.
It added that the team also conducted an inspection of the Royal Dede Beach Resort, which had been converted into a hostel by a new management without prior notification or approval from the GTA.
The Authority said the hostel’s current operations were in violation of the Tourism Regulations (L.I. 2239), which mandates all accommodation facilities to register and obtain a license before commencing business.
The operators have since been directed to report to the GTA’s Standards and Quality Assurance Department for proper registration and regulation.
“We commend the Ghana Police Service for their swift cooperation and continued support as investigations continue,” the statement said.
The GTA used the opportunity to remind hospitality operators across the country to comply with licensing regulations to ensure safety, accountability, and high standards within the tourism and hospitality sector.
The public is encouraged to report non-compliant establishments to the nearest GTA office.
