The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has launched a nationwide operation targeting undocumented migrants, with a particular focus on Accra. This initiative aims to enforce immigration laws and address national security and sanitation concerns.
The operation commenced in the early hours of Friday, May 16, 2025, concentrating on areas known for street begging and informal trading, such as Kaneshie, Abossey Okai, and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. Hundreds of undocumented migrants, including women and children, have been detained. Many of these individuals are believed to have arrived from neighboring countries and have been living on the streets of Accra.
The GIS has indicated that the operation will continue in phases across other major cities, aiming to ensure the orderly enforcement of immigration regulations.
Public reactions to the crackdown have been mixed. Some Ghanaians support the Immigration Service’s efforts, while others have criticized the migrants for resorting to begging rather than seeking work. Conversely, some express empathy, acknowledging that the migrants may have limited options.
The GIS has stated that the primary objective is to remove street beggars from the capital, aligning with national security and sanitation concerns.