Ghana has removed 4,200 migrant beggars and illegal immigrants from the country since 2025. Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak confirmed these operations, targeting irregular migration and associated unlawful activities. The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) conducted these removals as part of ongoing efforts to secure borders and maintain public order.
The removals include 3,241 migrant beggars and 960 other illegal immigrants. These individuals were reportedly involved in transnational organised crime. Minister Mubarak stated that officials removed 2,281 migrant beggars and 774 illegal immigrants by the end of 2025. An additional 960 migrant beggars and 186 illegal immigrants were removed by July 2026. These operations focused on major urban centres like Accra and Kumasi.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader strategy to manage migration flows and enhance national security. The government has previously conducted large-scale operations against street begging rings. These earlier exercises in 2025 also led to the repatriation of thousands of foreign nationals. The current efforts reflect a sustained commitment to addressing public concerns about visible street begging and its links to exploitation networks.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak emphasized the operations adhere to Ghana’s international obligations. He specifically mentioned the ECOWAS Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons. The minister affirmed that actions are lawful and respect human dignity. He also highlighted Ghana’s long-standing diplomatic relations with other nations.
The government plans to scale up these enforcement actions with increased logistical support. Minister Mubarak stated there is high-level consensus for this expansion. He assured the public that evidence of this enhanced capacity will soon be apparent. This commitment aims to strengthen border security and reduce irregular migration to a minimum.
These disclosures come amid ongoing public concern over the visible presence of migrant beggars in major urban centres. Reports often link these groups to networks involved in exploitation and organised crime. The government's actions aim to protect public order and national security. Ghana will continue to uphold its tradition of hospitality while ensuring compliance with national laws.
The Minister rejected any suggestion of a lack of political will or security intelligence. Instead, he identified the scale of operations as the principal constraint. The new logistical support aims to overcome this challenge. This will allow for more comprehensive and effective removal operations. The government remains focused on lawful enforcement and human dignity throughout this process.
The continued efforts by the Ghana Immigration Service are crucial for national security. They also address socio-economic concerns related to irregular migration. The government's transparent approach aims to reassure citizens. It also seeks to maintain international standards in migration management. The coming months will show the impact of the scaled-up operations.