GIS removes street children and guardians in Kaneshie and Abossey Okai operation

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) conducted a special operation in Kaneshie and Abossey Okai. The aim was to remove street children and their guardians, many of whom are foreign nationals.

This early morning exercise is part of a nationwide initiative. It targeted clusters of non-Ghanaian street dwellers, especially minors. These individuals have increasingly occupied pavements and intersections in Accra’s commercial areas.

Immigration officers engaged with women and children during the operation. They escorted them off the streets afterward.

Officials stated that the operation aims to decongest public spaces. It also seeks to enhance safety, combat child exploitation, and identify illegal residents in Ghana.

The operation responds to growing public concern about street-connected children in the capital. Many are suspected to have entered Ghana from Chad and Niger.

Dr. Ernestina Tetteh leads the Coalition for Street-Connected Children Organisation (CSCCO). She recently expressed her concerns on Citi FM, calling the situation “growing and potentially organised.”

“Statistics are hard to come by; we only know that numbers are increasing,” she said. “They usually come from Chad or Niger.”

She noted that this issue has existed since her childhood but has worsened over time.

The GIS has not disclosed how many individuals were picked up during the operation. Officials say screening is ongoing to determine legal status and take appropriate action.

Authorities plan to continue similar operations across the country. This effort aims to manage urban safety, curb human trafficking, and address illegal migration.