The Ghana Immigration Service has conducted a joint operation to address street dwelling issues in Accra, specifically targeting non-Ghanaian residents. Over 2,000 foreigners were apprehended during the operation in Kaneshie and Abossey Okai. Those picked up, including children and their guardians, were transported to the Ghana Immigration Service Headquarters for further processing.
This operation is part of a broader initiative aimed at decongesting streets and managing immigration.The operation was carried out across Nima, Abossey Okai Sabon Zongo, and Obetshebi Round-about communities .
According to a press release from GIS its aim for the operation is to humanely repatriate those without proper documentation, disrupt networks facilitating illegal migration and street -level exploitation and to address growing concerns over street begging and congestion in the Capital.
The arrested individuals will undergo further processing, including security and medical screening. The GIS has assured that those apprehended will be treated with professionalism and respect for their human rights. The operation’s outcomes are still being evaluated, with possible next steps including repatriation, child protection referrals, and collaboration with foreign missions .
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Further , Accra’s Mayor, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey has announced plans to decongest major suburbs in the capital. He urges pedestrian hawkers to cooperate with authorities and comply with directives to avoid conflicts.
The success and sustainability of these efforts remain to be seen, most especially issues involving the street hawkers.
