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The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has rescued 305 foreign nationals, including 113 children, during the second phase of an intelligence-driven operation aimed at dismantling human trafficking networks disguised as street begging in the Greater Accra Region. The operation, conducted in the early hours of Wednesday, April 15, 2026, targeted key areas including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina, and Kaneshie.
In a statement, GIS explained that this operation is part of its ongoing efforts to combat organized networks that exploit vulnerable migrants, particularly women and children, through street begging. “The operation targeted the exploitation of foreign nationals through organized street begging—a practice often used by criminal networks to traffic and control vulnerable individuals,” said Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Maud Anima Quainoo, Head of Public Affairs.
Among the 305 individuals rescued, 113 were children, consisting of 36 boys and 77 girls. The remaining group included 66 adult women and 126 adult men. The high number of minors involved underscores growing concerns about the exploitation of children by such trafficking networks. All the rescued persons are currently undergoing profiling and immigration processing at a dedicated facility.
The GIS noted that it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that victims, particularly the children, receive the necessary care, protection, and support as investigations continue. The operation builds on earlier efforts, with GIS enhancing intelligence-led coordination to better identify and dismantle trafficking and exploitation rings operating in urban centres.
“The Service remains committed to combating human trafficking, safeguarding vulnerable migrants, and promoting lawful migration practices,” the statement added.
GIS is also calling on the public to assist in the fight against human trafficking by reporting suspected cases of street begging and trafficking to the nearest Immigration Office. Further updates will be provided as investigations and processing of the rescued individuals continue.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source :Loco tv