Child Rights International has criticized the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) for its recent crackdown on street children, labeling the approach as concerning and potentially detrimental to national security.
The GIS operation, conducted on May 16, 2025, targeted foreign street children and their guardians in Accra’s commercial areas, resulting in the arrest of over 2,200 individuals.
Bright Appiah, Executive Director of Child Rights International, emphasized that children should not be labeled as “prohibited” or “illegal immigrants.”
Instead, the government should prioritize gathering data about these children to understand their backgrounds and prevent further exploitation.
Appiah urged the government to work with relevant agencies to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of street children, focusing on their protection and well-being.
Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Peter Lanchene Toobu, has also called for a more compassionate and collaborative approach to the crackdown on street begging.
Toobu stressed the need to recognize the dignity of street children, regardless of nationality, and urged authorities to ensure humane treatment during repatriation.
He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to support the development of these children.
The Interior Minister, Muntaka Mubarak, has announced plans to extend the crackdown on organized street begging beyond Accra, with similar operations to be carried out in other regions, including Kumasi and Tamale.
The government aims to dismantle syndicates suspected of orchestrating begging activities across the country.
Child Rights International is urging the government to adopt a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of street children, prioritizing their protection and well-being.
The organization emphasizes the need for collaboration between government agencies and stakeholders to develop effective solutions that address the root causes of streetism and provide support to vulnerable children.
By Bernard K Dadzie
