Video – Ghana Immigration apprehend 2,241 undocumented street children and their guardians

The Ghana Immigration Service has arrested 2,241 undocumented street children and their guardians in Accra.

This operation aims to address concerns about child streetism and illegal residency. It also focuses on national security threats in the capital.

Reports indicate that the operation took place early on Friday, May 16. The targeted areas included Kaneshie, Abossey Okai, and Kwame Nkrumah Circle.

Uniformed officers rounded up the street children and their guardians. Many of those apprehended are suspected to be foreign nationals. They were escorted into immigration vehicles during the operation.

The Immigration Service wants to decongest urban centers and enhance public safety. They also aim to repatriate individuals living in the country illegally. This includes those suspected of being trafficked or part of organized begging networks.

Dr. Ernestina Tetteh leads the Coalition for Street-Connected Children Organisation (CSCCO). She recently expressed concerns about rising child streetism in Ghana. She noted that statistics are hard to find but acknowledged growing numbers daily.

Many street children come from Chad and Niger, a situation worsening over time. Dr. Tetteh mentioned this issue has existed since her childhood, referring to it as "salaka."

Ghanaians have largely supported this initiative, calling it timely and necessary due to increasing child streetism.

Ghana immigration officers conducted raids at key locations to identify illegal foreign nationals. These included mainly street beggars and child vendors living unlawfully in the country.

The Ghana Immigration Service's recent operation focused on tackling illegal immigrant beggars in Accra.