Over 2,200 Undocumented Migrants Detained in Nationwide Operation

Ghanaian immigration authorities have apprehended over 2,000 undocumented foreign nationals in Accra during a significant operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks and reducing street ‘begging’

The early Friday raids resulted in the detention of 2,241 individuals, including 1,332 children.

According to the Ghana Immigration Service, this initiative is part of a larger strategy to tackle growing concerns about organized street begging allegedly involving foreign nationals. 

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak emphasized on ‘Facebook’ that the campaign addresses a national security threat and tarnishes the country’s reputation.

Many of those detained reportedly entered Ghana through unauthorized routes, primarily from neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Togo, as well as Nigeria.

Authorities intend to conduct security and medical screenings before repatriating the individuals, ensuring that the process respects human rights and maintains professionalism. 

The operation has elicited mixed reactions from the public; while some, like spare parts dealer John Gyamfi, view it as a necessary step to ” restore order” others, such as Chamsiya Alhassan from Niger, argue that their presence in Ghana is driven by-” dire humanitarian needs”  rather than criminal intent.