The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has carried out a major intelligence-led anti-trafficking operation in the Greater Accra Region, rescuing hundreds of victims and disrupting organised street begging networks that exploit vulnerable individuals.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Wednesday, targeted areas including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina, and Kaneshie.
According to a press statement issued by GIS, a total of 305 West African nationals were encountered during the exercise. This figure includes 113 children, 66 adult women, and 126 adult men. Of the children rescued, 36 were boys, and 77 were girls, highlighting growing concerns about the exploitation of minors in such networks.
“All persons rescued are currently undergoing profiling and necessary immigration procedures at a dedicated centre in line with established protocols,” the statement noted.
GIS emphasised that it would be working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure victims, especially children, receive appropriate care, protection, and support.
The statement explained that the operation builds on lessons from earlier exercises, with enhanced coordination and targeted interventions aimed at dismantling criminal networks that traffic foreign nationals under the guise of street begging.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, protecting vulnerable migrants, and promoting lawful and orderly migration.
GIS urged the public to support ongoing efforts by reporting suspicious activities related to human trafficking and organised street begging to the nearest Immigration Office.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
