The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has intensified efforts to address the growing issue of streetism, particularly involving underage children exposed to harsh weather conditions and illegal activities. These vulnerable children, often used by their parents as a means of economic survival, have raised significant concerns among state security agencies.
Security Analyst and Fraud Expert Richard Kumadoe highlighted the issue during an interview on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor FM 92.3, hosted by Alex Nana Dogbey in Accra. He stressed the urgent need for interventions to protect these children and remove them from street life.
The general vulnerability of these children has prompted the GIS to reassess its protocols in line with international standards and immigration laws. According to the Service, the streets should not be considered a place of residence or a legal address. Under international protocols, signatory countries are obligated to prevent individuals—especially minors—from living on the streets.
In a related development, the GIS has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghana’s borders and enforcing immigration protocols to curb the influx of foreigners entering the country through illegal means.
The Service recently announced the successful repatriation of 925 undocumented migrants following a major operation in Accra. Most of those repatriated were engaged in street begging. The operation, conducted on Friday, May 16, 2025, led to the arrest and subsequent removal of these individuals. The repatriation process began the following day, Saturday, May 17.
In a statement issued on Monday, May 19, GIS confirmed the return of 819 Nigeriens and 106 Nigerians to their respective home countries.
“Repatriation was initiated in the morning of Saturday, 17th May, 2025. At the time of this release, 925 persons have been successfully repatriated, and processes are underway to remove the rest,” the GIS stated.
The Service noted that additional undocumented migrants arrested during the operation are currently being processed for repatriation. A total of 2,241 individuals are being held at designated holding centers, with the following breakdown of nationalities:
Nigerien: 2,073
Nigerian: 138
Burkinabe: 28
Guinean: 1
Malian: 1
The GIS added that all African Union-affected migrants underwent profiling and security screening in accordance with its Standard Operating Procedures. Detainees were segregated by gender and age, adhering to international best practices.
Furthermore, the GIS assured the public that meals and other basic needs are being provided, and medical care is available on-site through a standby clinic.
