The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested more than 600 undocumented migrants, including 381 children, during a pre-dawn operation in parts of Kumasi.
The coordinated exercise took place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, targeting several communities known for a rising presence of street beggars and undocumented foreign nationals.
Led by the Ashanti Regional Commander of GIS, DCOI Fred Amankwa, the operation began at 3:30 a.m. and ended at 5:00 a.m. Areas covered included Asawase, Alabar, Akwatia Line, Dagomba Line, Sabon Zongo, and Aboabo.
In total, 606 individuals were apprehended—comprising 381 children, 72 females, and 153 males.
Authorities say the exercise forms part of efforts to address concerns raised by residents over public nuisance, congestion, and deteriorating sanitation linked to the increasing presence of foreign beggars in the city. Some of those arrested are believed to be nationals of neighbouring countries, including Niger, and many are said to have previously been repatriated before re-entering Ghana.
Residents in Kumasi have for years called for stricter enforcement and repatriation measures, citing social and environmental challenges associated with street begging in the metropolis.
All individuals arrested have been transported to the GIS holding facility in Prampram for screening to verify identities and determine the next course of action.
