Over 100 children among 305 rescued in anti-trafficking operation

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has rescued 305 West African nationals in the second phase of an intelligence-led operation targeting exploitative street begging networks in the Greater Accra Region.

The exercise, carried out on Wednesday, 15 April, forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on human trafficking and the organised use of vulnerable persons for street begging.

The operation focused on key hotspots across Accra, including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina and Kaneshie.

Of the 305 individuals rescued, 113 are children, 66 are adult women, and 126 are adult men. Authorities say the high number of minors highlights growing concerns about child exploitation within such networks.

Following the operation, the victims are undergoing profiling and immigration processes, while steps are being taken to provide care and protection, particularly for the children.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, 15 April, the GIS said the exercise builds on earlier operations, with enhanced coordination aimed at dismantling criminal networks behind organised street begging.

The Service has also called on the public to report suspected cases of human trafficking and related activities, as it intensifies efforts to address the issue and protect vulnerable populations.