By: Magdalene Andoh
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has directed Regional Commanders of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to intensify efforts to combat illegal immigration and address the growing incidence of street begging across the country.
Speaking at a meeting with the Regional Commanders in Accra, the Minister expressed concern about the increasing number of people engaged in street begging, describing the practice as unlawful and a potential threat to national security.
“Street begging is not allowed in Ghana. It poses serious security concerns and must not be allowed,” Mr Mohammed-Mubarak stressed.
He reminded officers of the Ghana Immigration Service of their crucial responsibility in monitoring the entry and exit of persons into and out of the country, urging them to remain vigilant and strengthen efforts to protect Ghana’s territorial integrity.
The Interior Minister also warned Immigration Officers against engaging in activities that compromise the country’s immigration system, stating that anyone found culpable would face severe punishment in accordance with the law.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak further directed the Regional Commanders to communicate the message to officers across the country and ensure that all personnel refrain from actions that could undermine the peace, security and integrity of the nation.
As part of measures to address illegal immigration, the Minister urged Immigration Officers to collaborate with landlords and other relevant stakeholders to help identify and properly profile tenants residing in various communities.
He assured the public of the Ministry of the Interior’s commitment to tackling illegal immigration and street begging while strengthening efforts to maintain peace, security and public safety across Ghana.
