GIS rescues 305, including 113 children, in anti-begging operation

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has rescued 305 West African nationals in the second phase of an operation targeting exploitative street begging networks in the Greater Accra Region.

The intelligence-led exercise, carried out on Wednesday, April 15, formed part of efforts to clamp down on human trafficking and the organised use of vulnerable persons for street begging.

The operation focused on key hotspots in Accra, including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina and Kaneshie.

Of the 305 individuals rescued, 113 are children, 66 are adult women, and 126 are adult men. Authorities say the high number of minors underscores growing concerns about child exploitation within such networks.

Following the operation, the victims are undergoing profiling and immigration processes, while efforts are underway to provide care and protection, particularly for the children.

In a statement released on Wednesday, April 15, GIS stated that the exercise builds on earlier operations, with improved coordination aimed at dismantling criminal networks behind the practice.

It has also urged the public to report suspected cases of human trafficking and organised street begging, as it continues efforts to address the issue.