Over 600 undocumented migrants, including many children, have been arrested in a dawn operation conducted by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in various locations within Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.
The early morning raid, undertaken on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, focused on areas that have long been impacted by the influx of foreign beggars, a situation that residents claim has intensified concerns regarding public nuisance and inadequate sanitation.
The operation, spearheaded by the Ashanti Regional Commander of GIS, DCOI Fred Amankwa, commenced at 3:30 a.m. and concluded at 5:00 a.m., encompassing Asawase, Alabar, Akwatia Line, Dagomba Line, Sabon Zongo, and Aboabo.
A total of 606 individuals were apprehended during the operation, which included 381 children, 72 females, and 153 males.
Residents in Kumasi and neighbouring communities have for years advocated for the repatriation of foreign beggars, particularly those from Niger, whose presence on the streets has significantly increased.
Many of these individuals were repatriated approximately two years ago but have since returned.
Authorities indicate that the presence of these beggars has not only caused a nuisance but has also exacerbated the sanitary conditions in the affected communities.
All individuals who were apprehended have been transported to Prampram for further screening to verify their identities.
