GIS urges public to channel donations to social welfare and credible NGOs instead of street beggars

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has urged members of the public to refrain from giving money directly to migrant beggars, especially children, following a recent anti-human trafficking operation in the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions. The service claims that direct donations could be supporting organized begging rings that exploit vulnerable migrants and children.

This plea follows the arrest of 1,055 individuals during the operation, comprising 662 children, 248 women, and 145 men on August 29. Some Ghanaian citizens are also believed to be acting as local agents for these exploitative begging networks. The GIS's Commissioner-General, Samuel Basintale Amadu, explained that eliminating the financial incentive from street begging will reduce the profitability of these networks and discourage traffickers from preying on vulnerable people.

In a statement signed by Deputy Commissioner Maud Anima Quianoo, GIS is encouraging the public to direct their donations to the Department of Social Welfare, recognized children's homes, reputable non-governmental organizations, or other authorized charitable groups. This approach ensures that aid reaches those in need through proper channels while supporting the fight against human trafficking and exploitative begging.

The 1,055 individuals apprehended during the operation have been handed over to a designated holding center for profiling and immigration processing. GIS is collaborating with relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection, to ensure that victims, particularly children, receive proper care, protection, and assistance throughout the removal process.