GIS arrests 1,055 West Africans in crackdown on street begging in Accra, Kumasi
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 1,055 West African nationals in an intelligence-led operation aimed at tackling organised street begging and suspected human trafficking activities in Accra and Kumasi. The exercise, carried out in the early hours of Saturday, August 29, 2026, targeted several locations identified as hotspots for street begging and possible exploitation […]
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has apprehended 1,055 West African nationals in a targeted operation targeting organized street begging and suspected human trafficking in Accra and Kumasi. The operation, conducted during the early hours of Saturday, August 29, 2026, aimed to enforce immigration laws as well as rescue individuals who might have been exploited or trafficked.
The GIS identified several locations as potential hubs for street begging and potential victimization. Of those arrested, 662 were children, 248 were women, and 145 were men. Investigations revealed a concerning trend of children allegedly being trafficked and forced to beg for money. Some Ghanaian nationals were also apprehended for their role as facilitators within these networks.
In the Greater Accra Region, the operation took place in Abossey Okai, Sabon Zongo, Madina Zongo Junction, Madina, Ashaiman, and Tema. In Kumasi, similar efforts were made in Asawase, Alabar, Akwatia Line, Dagomba Line, Sabon Zongo, Airport Junction, and Aboabo. The GIS emphasized that the coordinated effort targeted larger networks, not just individual beggars.
Further investigations are planned to determine the full circumstances surrounding the arrests and identify any victims of trafficking or abuse.
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