Accra: The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has taken swift action following social media reports about minors allegedly being taken to a hotel in Accra New Town. In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, the Authority said it had formally reported the matter to the Nima Division of the Ghana Police Service for investigation.

According to Ghana News Agency, the GTA, in line with its mandate to ensure safety and compliance in the tourism and hospitality sector, has delegated a team from its Head Office to visit the facility. The delegation comprised Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, Deputy CEO, Special Duties; Mr. Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO, Operations; Greater Accra Regional Director, Ms. Roberta Dawson-Amoah; and Deputy Director of Marketing, Ms. Clara Nketiah.

The statement outlined that the objective of dispatching the team was to verify facts and take necessary regulatory action. ‘We commend the Ghana Police Service for their co-operation and continued support in the ongoing investigation,’ it said.

During the visit, the team also inspected Royal Dede Beach Resort, which had been converted into a hostel under new management without official notification to the GTA. The statement noted that the hostel’s operations were not in compliance with L.I 2239, and the operator had been directed to the Standards and Quality Assurance Department of the Authority for regulation.

The GTA reminded all accommodation operators of the Tourism Registration and Licensing of Accommodation Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2239), which mandates every facility to register and obtain a license from the GTA before commencing operations. ‘This regulation ensures quality, safety, and compliance across the industry,’ it said.

The GTA reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and high hospitality standards, urging the public to report non-compliant facilities to the nearest office.