Accra—In a significant escalation of efforts to address organised street begging, the Ghanaian government is broadening its crackdown nationwide. The announcement, made Friday by Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, signals a determined push to dismantle networks exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly children. The move follows an initial operation in Accra that led to the arrest of over 2,200 foreign nationals, highlighting the scale and complexity of the issue. The Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, announced the expansion on Facebook on Friday, 16 May 2025.

The initial operation, spearheaded by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in the Greater Accra Region, resulted in the apprehension of 2,241 individuals. According to Minister Mubarak, the intelligence-led operation targeted the core of what officials describe as organised networks profiting from the exploitation of individuals forced into begging. This crackdown on street begging is now expanding to other regions.

The demographics of those arrested underscore the vulnerability of children caught in this cycle. Among those detained were 909 adults and 1,332 children, comprising 961 males and 1,280 females. These figures paint a grim picture of the human cost associated with organised begging, raising concerns about child welfare and exploitation.

The government’s rationale for the intensified crackdown stems from a desire to dismantle these criminal networks. The Minister emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of organised street begging, which officials believe are linked to broader issues of national security. “The exercise, carried out in the early hours of the morning, aimed to dismantle networks believed to be behind the growing problem of organised street begging in the capital,” Mr. Mubarak stated. He also commended the GIS personnel for their commitment to national security through this operation, acknowledging the critical role they play in safeguarding the nation.

Responding to public outcry and increasing concerns from communities across Ghana, the government plans to extend the operation to other regions, including Kumasi and Tamale. Minister Mubarak acknowledged the widespread demand for similar actions in various communities. “I have seen the public reactions and calls for similar actions in places like Kumasi, Tamale, and other communities. Please be assured that this is a nationwide exercise that began in Accra and will be extended to other regions soon,” he affirmed.

The success of this expanded operation hinges on the support and cooperation of the Ghanaian public. Minister Mubarak appealed for citizens to play an active role in ensuring the safety and orderliness of their streets. “The Minister appealed for public support and cooperation as the operations move into new areas, calling on citizens to play a role in ensuring the safety and orderliness of their streets.” The Minister urges that “Let’s work together to keep our streets safe.”

The government’s commitment to combating organised street begging extends beyond law enforcement actions. It involves a multifaceted approach that includes social intervention programs, rehabilitation efforts, and preventative measures aimed at addressing the root causes of vulnerability. By working collaboratively with local communities, civil society organizations, and international partners, the government aims to create sustainable solutions that empower individuals and families to break free from the cycle of poverty and exploitation.