The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 2,241 foreigners in an operation in Accra targeted at undocumented migrants in the capital who have been begging for alms on the streets.
The operation commenced in the early hours of Friday, May 16, as part of the GIS’s ongoing efforts to address the growing issue of street begging in Accra and other cities across the country.
Those detained included both adults and children. A breakdown of those arrested is as follows:
Adults: 909 (384 males, 525 females)
Children: 1,332 (577 males, 755 females)
Total: 2,241 (961 males, 1,280 females)
Before their repatriation, the GIS is undertaking the detainees through medical and security screening as part of its procedures.
In a statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration Michael Amoako-Atta, the GIS assured the public that all detainees are being treated with professionalism and full respect for their human rights.
“They are currently being taken through the necessary processes, including security and medical screening,” the statement contained in some parts.
Friday’s operation targeted key areas including Sabon Zongo, Nima, Abossey Okai, and Obetsebi Roundabout were among those targeted during the operation.
The statement further highlighted the Service’s decision to repatriate undocumented migrants and thwart any criminal network linked to their presence in the country.
Mr. Amoako-Atta further indicated that the human rights of these detainees will be respected in the course of the procedures being undertaken to send them back to their countries.
