UK & Ghana Police CID Cooperation Leads To Successful Prosecution Of ‘wanted’ Person For Migrant Smuggling

Keynotes

UK and Ghana law enforcement cooperation disrupts organised immigration crime network.

Arrest and prosecution of suspect linked to illegal migration and fraudulent travel documentation.

Trial proceeded in absence of convicted person, who remains wanted by Ghana Police.

The United Kingdom continues to take decisive action against Organised Immigration Crime (OIC) through proactive and reactive measures aimed at dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding borders. These actions include arrests, asset seizures, and prosecutions that prevent organised crime groups from operating at previous levels of criminality.

In 2022, multiple incidents involving acts for the illegal facilitation of migration using fraudulent travel documents were detected on flights departing Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana to the UK. Following these detections, the British High Commission formally referred a case to Ghana’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), leading to the arrest of Julian Kyere Akoto-Bamfo, charged with migrant smuggling.

During judicial proceedings at the Ghana Supreme Court in 2025, the accused was granted bail but failed to appear as required and his sureties of ₵45,000 were forfeited.

On 14th January 2026 Akoto-Bamfo was convicted and sentenced to 5 years imprisonment with hard labour and ordered to pay a fine of ₵12,000. This trial was conducted in his absence, and the convict remains wanted by Ghana Police.

H.E. Dr. Christian Rogg, British High Commissioner to Ghana, said:

"This case demonstrates the strength of UK-Ghana cooperation in tackling organised immigration crime.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt criminal networks and protect the integrity of our borders."

COP Lydia Donkor, Director General of the Criminal Investigations Department, Ghana Police Service added:

"Our work with the British High Commission reflects our commitment to ensuring that Ghana does not become a safe haven for organised crime.

“We will pursue justice relentlessly."

This case also reflects a broader global effort to combat visa fraud and illegal migration. In November 2025, the High Commissions of Australia, Canada, and the UK launched a joint campaign during International Fraud Awareness Week to educate the public on the dangers of visa scams and promote safe application practices.