Ghana removed 2,281 migrant beggars and 774 illegal immigrants involved in transnational organised crime in 2025. Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed confirmed these figures, highlighting the government's ongoing efforts to manage irregular migration.
These removals were carried out by the Ghana Immigration Service. The minister stated that these individuals were found engaging in unlawful activities within Ghana. The enforcement actions continued into 2026, with further removals by July.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader strategy to control its borders and maintain public order. Irregular migration can strain public services and sometimes link to criminal activities. The government aims to balance national security with its international commitments, particularly the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed stated, “By the end of 2025, the Ghana Immigration Service had 2,281 migrant beggars on our streets and 774 other illegal immigrants involved in transnational organised crime that had been removed from Ghana.” He made these remarks at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, August 24.
The government will likely continue these enforcement operations. Decision-makers will focus on providing logistical support to strengthen the Ghana Immigration Service. Markets and communities will watch for the impact on social services and the informal economy.
The Ghana Immigration Service has continued its operations into the current year. By July 2026, an additional 960 migrant beggars were removed from Accra and Kumasi. Another 186 illegal immigrants were also removed during this period. These figures demonstrate a sustained effort to address the issue of irregular migration.
Minister Mubarak Mohammed emphasised that the government is fully aware of its obligations. Ghana respects the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons. It also values its long-standing diplomatic relations with other countries. The objective is to reduce irregular migration and associated unlawful activities to the barest minimum.
The minister stressed that enforcement actions must be lawful. They must be undertaken by appropriate authorities. Crucially, these actions must be carried out in a manner that respects human dignity. This approach aims to prevent human rights abuses during removals.
Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed identified the primary challenge as a question of skill and operational capacity. He clarified that the issue is not a lack of political will, security, intelligence, or leadership. Improving the skills of immigration officers is crucial for effective management.
The government has a high-level consensus on providing earmarked logistical support. This support will increase the scale of removals. It will also strengthen the relevant institutions involved in border management. Evidence of this enhanced capacity is expected to become apparent soon.
These measures are part of a wider government strategy to enhance national security. They also aim to ensure compliance with immigration laws. The impact on local communities and the economy will be closely monitored. Effective management of irregular migration is vital for Ghana's stability and development.
The continuous removal of individuals involved in unlawful activities underscores the government's commitment. It seeks to maintain law and order within its borders. This policy also aims to protect the welfare of its citizens. The Ghana Immigration Service plays a critical role in achieving these objectives.