We will treat undocumented migrants in detention with fairness – GIS assures

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 2,241 undocumented foreign nationals in a large-scale operation targeting street begging in parts of Accra.

The arrests were made in the early hours of Friday, May 16, as part of the Service’s efforts to address the rising number of foreign nationals begging in the capital.

Those detained include both adults and children. According to officials, 909 adults were arrested, comprising 384 males and 525 females.

Among the children, 577 were boys and 755 were girls, bringing the total number of detainees to 2,241.

The individuals are currently undergoing security and medical screening at the GIS National Headquarters in Accra. These procedures are part of the process required before any repatriation actions can be taken.

Assistant Commissioner of Immigration Mr Amoako-Atta, Head of Public Affairs, assured the public that the migrants are being treated with care and fairness.

“They are currently being taken through the necessary processes, including security and medical screening,” he said.

The operation focused on areas such as Nima, Sabon Zongo, Abossey Okai, and the Obetsebi Roundabout.

The Service says these areas have become known for street begging involving foreign nationals.

Authorities believe some of these individuals are part of larger illegal migration networks.

The GIS has stated that dismantling such networks remains a key goal in their ongoing work.

While the operation has drawn public interest, officials have reassured Ghanaians that every detainee will be handled with respect and by the law.