The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has apprehended 305 West African nationals in a renewed operation against exploitative street begging networks in the Greater Accra Region. Conducted in the early hours of Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the intelligence-led exercise forms part of the second phase of a crackdown aimed at rescuing victims and dismantling organised groups that exploit vulnerable individuals under the guise of street begging.
Among those picked up were 113 children, 66 adult women, and 126 adult men. Of the children, 36 were boys and 77 were girls—a trend the Service says underscores the growing vulnerability of minors within such networks. The operation covered several areas in Accra, including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina and Kaneshie.
According to a statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs of the Service, Maud Anima Quainoo, dated Wednesday, April 15, all individuals rescued are currently undergoing profiling and other immigration procedures at a designated centre in line with established protocols.
All individuals rescued are currently undergoing profiling and necessary immigration procedures at a dedicated center, following established protocols. The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that victims, especially children, receive the appropriate care, protection, and support, according to their statement.
This operation builds on a previous initiative, featuring enhanced coordination and targeted interventions aimed at dismantling networks involved in the exploitation of foreign nationals through organised street begging. The GIS reaffirms its commitment to combating human trafficking, protecting vulnerable migrants, and promoting lawful migration. They also urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest immigration office.
Source: Leticia Osei
