Minority appeals to diplomatic community over ‘suspicious flights’ scandal

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has formally requested the intervention of the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, Maher Kheir, to help unravel the growing controversy surrounding the Gran Canaria flights scandal.

Jinapor’s appeal, made on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, was presented on behalf of the Minority Caucus of the Committee amid mounting concerns over alleged illicit activities linked to two specific flights.

The flights in question—AirMed and Cavok Air—are suspected of transporting suspicious goods and funds, sparking widespread national and international calls for thorough investigations.

Jinapor underscored the importance of collaboration between Ghana’s security and intelligence agencies and the diplomatic community to get to the bottom of the matter.

He cited Ghana’s commitments under international treaties against transnational crimes, including drug trafficking and money laundering.

In his remarks, Jinapor referred to independent findings that reportedly contradict claims made by the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu. These findings suggest that the AirMed flights arrived directly from Gran Canaria, not Luanda as earlier stated by the Minister.

To support efforts at uncovering the truth, Jinapor proposed key diplomatic interventions, including intelligence sharing, security cooperation, and collaboration with Ghanaian authorities in any future probe.

He also called for the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry under Article 278 of the Constitution to investigate the matter comprehensively and ensure transparency.

Emphasising the urgency of the situation, Jinapor warned that Ghana’s global image could be tarnished if swift action is not taken, potentially branding the country as a transit hub for illicit operations.

Additionally, he urged steps to protect the independence of Parliament and the personal safety of whistleblowers such as Hon. John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee.

Jinapor concluded by reiterating the critical need for immediate action, stating that a robust response to transnational organized crime is essential for safeguarding both national and international security.