GIS halts migrant beggar arrests over overcrowded detention centre

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has paused its crackdown on street begging. This decision is due to overcrowding at its detention center in Accra.

On May 19, 2025, the GIS released a statement about the suspension. They aim to prevent congestion at the National Headquarters Holding Centre. Over 2,000 individuals, mostly from Niger, are currently detained there. So far, they have repatriated 925 migrants: 819 from Niger and 106 from Nigeria.

The GIS stated that the operation respects migrant rights. They provide food, medical care, and humane treatment to detainees. However, the high number of detainees has strained logistics. Each person must undergo detailed profiling and security checks.

The Service assured that arrests will resume soon. This is part of their efforts to remove beggars from the streets and dismantle related criminal networks.

They also called for public support while emphasizing professionalism and human rights. With over 90% of detainees being Nigeriens, this situation highlights the rise of economic migrants in Ghana’s urban begging scene.