Ghana Immigration Service suspends arrests of migrant beggars

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has temporarily paused its crackdown on foreign nationals involved in street begging due to overcrowding at its detention facilities.

According to a press release issued on May 19, 2025, the decision was made “to avoid congestion at the Holding Centre at the National Headquarters.” The suspension follows the detention of 2,244 individuals—predominantly from Niger—during an ongoing nationwide operation aimed at curbing street begging by undocumented migrants.

Out of those detained, 925 people have already been repatriated, including 819 Nigeriens and 106 Nigerians. However, as authorities continue to process and deport the remaining individuals, the GIS says halting additional arrests is a necessary step to avoid overwhelming its facilities.

"The Special Operation is being conducted humanely in compliance [with] the rights of all migrants," the statement noted. It added that detainees are being provided with meals, medical assistance, and other essential services during their stay.

Each detainee is thoroughly screened, profiled, and subjected to security checks. The GIS also ensures separation based on gender and age in line with international human rights practices. These extensive procedures have added to the operational pressure on the immigration system.

Despite the pause, the GIS made clear that the operation will continue. It stated that activities will resume “in due course” as part of its broader efforts to “rid the streets of beggars and clamp down on criminal networks.”

The Service called on the media, civil society, and the general public to continue supporting its mission, emphasizing that its approach remains “professional” and rights-respecting.

With Nigeriens making up more than 92 percent of the detainees, the operation has drawn attention to the role of regional migration in Ghana’s urban street economy. The temporary halt reflects not just logistical constraints but also the broader challenges involved in large-scale repatriation and enforcement of immigration policies.