Street begging crackdown to expand beyond Accra – Interior Minister

The Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, announced a crackdown on organized street begging. This effort will soon expand beyond Accra. It follows the arrest of over 2,200 foreign nationals.

On Friday, May 16, 2025, the Minister shared details in a Facebook post. The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) arrested 2,241 foreign nationals in Greater Accra.

The operation took place early in the morning. Its goal was to dismantle networks behind organized street begging in the capital.

Among those detained were 909 adults and 1,332 children. This group included 961 males and 1,280 females.

Mr. Mubarak praised GIS personnel for their vital contribution to national security. He emphasized their commitment in his remarks.

However, he noted that this is just the beginning of a larger campaign. He acknowledged public calls for similar actions in other cities like Kumasi and Tamale.

“Please be assured that this is a nationwide exercise,” he stated. The campaign began in Accra but will extend to other regions soon.

The Minister urged public support as operations move into new areas. He called on citizens to help ensure safety and orderliness on the streets.

“Let’s work together to keep our streets safe,” he urged everyone.