A security officer at the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Awudu Basit, has been interdicted for conducting a pre-boarding search on National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah.

In a letter dated September 8, the company explained that Mr Basit’s search on the minister at the VVVIP Lounge at the airport was embarrassing.

The company also noted that the search created a ‘negative impression’ of the company.

As a result, the management of the GACL said it has commenced investigations into the matter.

During the period of Mr Basit’s interdiction, he will be expected to receive only two-thirds of his salary, the company added.

“You were assigned to perform airside patrol duties at the Kumasi Airport on 8th September 2022 and you saw the Minister of National Security emerging from the VVIP Lounge to board Africa World Airline flight at about 14: 30 hours.

It is reported that you approached the Hon. Minister and demanded to conduct pre-boarding search on him in the open frontage of the VVIP Lounge which ended up embarrassing the Hon. Minister.

In view of the negative impression it cast on the company’s image and integrity, Management has decided to thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to this incident”, portions of the statement clarified.

The statement continued, “In line with Article 17(e) of the Collective Agreement, we notify you of your INTERDICTION from Friday, September 9, 2022 pending the completion of investigations into the matter”.

“We advise that you shall be paid two-thirds (2/3) of your salary during the period of interdiction”, the statement concluded.

Mr Basit’s letter of interdiction was signed by the company’s officer in charge of human capital and officer service, R. S. Tagoe.

Meanwhile, some netizens have expressed their sentiments about the interdiction.

According to them, the National Security Minister is not above the law, and therefore he is not beyond a search.

Others have however criticised the said officer, but condemned the resultant interdiction.