The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has launched a sweeping operation to remove undocumented foreign nationals engaged in street begging across Accra, arresting over 2,200 individuals in a single day.
In an early morning operation on Friday, May 16, 2025, GIS officers targeted known begging hotspots, including Sabon Zongo, Nima, Abossey Okai, and Obetsebi Roundabout. According to official figures, 2,241 individuals were detained—909 adults (384 male, 525 female) and 1,332 children (577 boys, 755 girls).
ACI Michael Amoako-Atta, Head of Public Affairs at GIS, explained that the crackdown aims to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable migrants.
“We’ve learned that some criminal elements are cashing in on these activities… involving them in human trafficking and other transnational crimes,” he told GTV. “As an institution responsible for migration, we thought it best to act against this menace, which impacts public safety.”
The detainees are undergoing security and medical screening at GIS National Headquarters in Accra before repatriation. Authorities confirmed coordination with relevant embassies to ensure orderly returns.
“Before the operation began, we had discussions with some embassies, and they are collaborating with us,” Amoako-Atta noted, recalling previous diplomatic-led repatriations.
The operation also seeks to prevent Ghanaian youth from adopting street begging. “Some Ghanaian schoolchildren are getting into this business, especially at traffic intersections,” Amoako-Atta warned. “We don’t want them leaving classrooms for the streets.”
The GIS assured humane treatment of detainees, emphasising respect for human rights throughout the process. The service plans continued operations to maintain what it describes as “a productive environment for the Ghanaian public.”
