Street begging crackdown must be humane and collaborative – Toobu

Peter Lanchene Toobu is the Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee. He has called for a kinder approach to street begging in Ghana. This follows the arrest of over 2,200 foreign nationals, including many children, in Accra.

In an interview on Channel One Newsroom on May 17, Toobu emphasized humane treatment during repatriation. “It is not just a matter of arresting them,” he said. “We should treat them humanely.”

Toobu also urged stronger cooperation between Ghana and the countries of origin. He highlighted the importance of responsible repatriation within the ECOWAS sub-region. He asked if measures would be taken to prevent their return and ensure proper treatment upon arrival.

He stressed recognizing the dignity of street children, regardless of nationality. Toobu called for regional cooperation to support their development. “These are children we are all trying to support,” he stated. “We need to collectively appreciate that we are dealing with humanity.”