The Ghana Immigration Service confirms deportation of 900+ street beggars

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has announced that it has deported 925 out of 2,241 illegal immigrants recently arrested for begging on the streets of Accra.

This was revealed in a press statement issued on May 20, and signed by Michael Amoako-Atta, Head of Public Affairs at GIS.

“Repatriation was initiated in the morning of Saturday, 17th May, 2025. At the time of this release, 925 persons have been successfully repatriated, and processes are underway to remove the rest,” the statement said.

The GIS assured the public that those in detention are being treated humanely, with their basic needs being taken care of. “Meals, among other needs of persons in detention, have been provided for by the Service, and the GIS Clinic is on standby to provide medical services where necessary.”

To manage space at its Holding Centre, the GIS has paused arrests for now. “To avoid congestion at the Holding Centre at the National Headquarters, there has been a temporary hold on arrests.”

The Service emphasized that the ongoing Special Operation is being carried out with full respect for human rights.“The GIS remains committed to its core values of Professionalism and Respect for Human Rights, and assures the general public of humane handling of affected immigrants. The GIS expresses utmost gratitude to all stakeholders, especially the general public and the media, for their support throughout this exercise.”

As Ghana’s main body responsible for migration and border control, GIS says it is focused on maintaining law and order while contributing to national development.

“As Ghana’s lead agency in migration management and border security, the GIS assures the general public of its commitment to operating fair and firm immigration systems and contributing to national security and development.”

The GIS also stated that the operation will resume soon. “The Special Operation will resume and continue in due course, in the effort to rid the streets of beggars and clamp down on criminal networks.”