The General Officer Commanding (GOC) Southern Command, Brigadier General Edward Awaribey, has warned newly passed-out soldiers to desist from the use of illicit drugs and the misuse of military uniforms for unauthorised activities.
He cautioned that military uniforms should not be used for debt collection, land guarding, fraudulent activities, unnecessary disputes, or any other duties not sanctioned by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
Brig. Gen. Awaribey also advised the recruits against abusing social media, urging them to protect the image and reputation of the GAF and to remain law-abiding.
He gave the caution as the Reviewing Officer at the Passing-Out Parade of Basic Infantry Training Course (BITC) 1-26, held at the Army Recruit Training School (ARTS), Shai Hills, in the Greater Accra Region, on Frida
y, September 25, 2026.
The GOC stressed that wearing a military uniform does not place any soldier above the law, noting that all personnel remain subject to the 1992 Constitution, the laws of Ghana, and GAF regulations.
He further urged the new soldiers to be mindful of the company they keep, explaining that friends and relatives could influence them to abuse their positions or misuse their uniforms.
A total of 646 recruits passed out after successfully completing six months of intensive training which began on March 27, 2026. The training covered physical training, drill, tactics, weapons handling, fieldcraft, map reading, military law, and first aid.
Brig. Gen. Awaribey disclosed that 650 recruits initially commenced the course, but four could not complete it due to medical and disciplinary reasons.
He said the 646 who passed out had met all required standards and are now qualified to begin their careers as soldiers of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Bernard K Dadzie