Ghana Immigration Service Rescues 305 West African Nationals, Including 113 Children, from Trafficking Rings

Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has dealt a major blow to organized crime.

In a targeted, intelligence-led operation, officers rescued 305 West African nationals from brutal street begging networks.

The victims include 113 children. Traffickers forced these vulnerable individuals to beg on the streets while exploiting them for profit.

 

Officers Strike in Early Morning Raid

The operation began in the early hours of Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Officers focused on key locations in the Greater Accra Region. These areas include Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina, and Kaneshie.

 

GIS officials planned the raid based on solid intelligence. They moved quickly to dismantle the networks that exploit foreign nationals.

 

Breaking Down the Rescue Numbers

The rescue operation yielded significant results. Officers encountered a total of 305 West African nationals during the exercise. Here is the breakdown:

• Children: 113 (36 males, 77 females)

• Adult Women: 66

• Adult Men: 126

 

Why the Number of Children Raises Alarm

GIS officials expressed deep concern about the high number of minors involved in this trafficking ring.

“The significant number of minors involved underscores growing concerns about the vulnerability of children within these exploitative arrangements,” the GIS statement read.

Criminal networks specifically target children because they are easier to control. Traffickers also know that child beggars generate more sympathy and more money from the public.

 

This Marks the Second Phase of a Larger Crackdown

This recent rescue does not stand alone. It represents the second phase of the Service’s clampdown on foreign national exploitation.

 

The first operation provided valuable lessons. For this second phase, GIS enhanced its coordination and targeted its interventions more precisely. The goal remains simple: dismantle every network that facilitates exploitation under the guise of street begging.

 

What Happens Next for the Victims

The Ghana Immigration Service is not stopping at rescue. All 305 individuals are now undergoing profiling and necessary immigration procedures at a dedicated center. The Service follows established protocols to ensure fairness and legality.

 

Additionally, GIS is working closely with relevant stakeholders. These partners help ensure that victims, especially the children receive appropriate care, protection, and support. This includes medical checks, shelter, and counseling.

 

GIS Reaffirms Its Commitment to Fight Trafficking

The Ghana Immigration Service made its position clear. The agency remains committed to combating human trafficking on all fronts.

 

“The Service remains committed to combating human trafficking, protecting vulnerable migrants, and promoting lawful and orderly migration,” the statement affirmed.

 

GIS urges the public to join this fight. Citizens should report suspicious activities related to human trafficking or organized street begging. Witnesses can contact their nearest Immigration Office immediately.

 

Signed by:
Maud Anima Quainoo
Deputy Commissioner of Immigration
Head, Public Affairs Department