“We Are Sitting on a Time Bomb” – COP Alex Mensah Warns Over Massive Surge in Security Service Applicants

Retired COP George Alex Mensah has expressed concern over the overwhelming number of applicants for Ghana’s security service recruitment, warning that the trend could create a “time bomb” if the country does not urgently address youth unemployment.

Speaking with Kwame Tanko on the Ghana Se Sen Morning Show on Lawson TV, COP Mensah noted that while only 10,000 recruits were initially needed, around 500,000 young Ghanaians applied. He said many applicants have little passion for the security services, driven instead by the lack of alternative employment opportunities.

“During our time, there were no fees to pay for forms; it was just an announcement, you go for checks, and pass through the process. But now, the situation is serious. Ten thousand were needed, but 500,000 applied because after school, there are no jobs,” he explained.

COP Alex Mensah warned that if the country does not create meaningful employment opportunities, many of those recruited into the security services may lack dedication to their roles. He emphasized that youth unemployment is the underlying cause and must be addressed.

“The solution to this surge in security applicants is simple: create more jobs for our youth. The country is sitting on a time bomb if we don’t act,” he said.

 President John Dramani Mahama recently directed that recruitment into Ghana’s security services be expanded.

The target has been increased from 20,000 to 40,000 personnel over four years, aiming to hire roughly 10,000 new recruits annually across the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Armed Forces, and Ghana Immigration Service.

COP Mensah reiterated that while the expansion is necessary, it does not replace the urgent need for broader job creation across the country.