Ghana Immigration launches crackdown on undocumented migrants in Accra, major cities

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has initiated a nationwide operation targeting undocumented foreign nationals, with Accra being a key focus area in the first phase of the enforcement drive.

The exercise, which commenced in the early hours of Friday, May 16, 2025, is part of GIS’s broader mandate to enforce immigration laws and safeguard national security, the agency announced.

In a statement signed by Assistant Commissioner of Immigration M. Amoako-Atta, Head of Public Affairs, the Service stated that the crackdown aims to ensure that all non-Ghanaians residing in the country are properly documented and legally authorized to remain.

“As part of our routine mandate, we are conducting this operation to strengthen regulatory compliance,” the GIS said. “We are currently reviewing the outcomes and will release further information in due course.”

Although specific figures and targeted locations have not been disclosed, sources indicate that the operation is being carried out in collaboration with other national security institutions.

This move is believed to be in response to increased public concern over the growing presence of undocumented migrants involved in unregulated or informal economic activities across urban centres.

The GIS has appealed to the general public to remain calm and support the initiative, emphasizing that law-abiding foreign nationals have no reason to fear.

“Our goal is to restore order and not to harass individuals who are in the country legally,” Amoako-Atta clarified, stressing that all actions will be conducted in accordance with legal procedures and respect for human rights.

The Immigration Service reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure and regulated environment for all residents and will continue to monitor developments as the operation unfolds.