Ghana Rescues 305 West African Nationals in Anti-Trafficking Raid
The Ghana Immigration Service successfully rescued 305 West African nationals, including 113 children, during a targeted intelligence-led operation against street begging networks in Accra. Conducted early Wednesday, the bust aimed to dismantle organized rings exploiting foreign nationals through coercive human trafficking schemes across the Greater Accra Region. The rescued group comprises 36 boys, 77 girls, 66 women, and 126 men, though specific nationalities were not disclosed. Authorities highlighted the significant number of minors as evidence of growing concerns regarding the exploitation of children in organized begging. This intervention occurs despite a 2024 U.S. State Department report indicating that Ghana fails to meet minimum standards for eliminating human trafficking, serving as a source, transit, and destination country within West Africa. The operation underscores ongoing governmental efforts to disrupt criminal networks that specifically target vulnerable women and children, reflecting broader regional challenges in combating modern slavery and forced labor practices.
Wire timeline
Ghana Rescues 305 West African Nationals in Anti-Trafficking Raid
The Ghana Immigration Service successfully rescued 305 West African nationals, including 113 children, during a targeted intelligence-led operation against street begging networks in Accra. Conducted early Wednesday, the bust aimed to dismantle organized rings exploiting foreign nationals through coercive human trafficking schemes across the Greater Accra Region. The rescued group comprises 36 boys, 77 girls, 66 women, and 126 men, though specific nationalities were not disclosed. Authorities highlighted the significant number of minors as evidence of growing concerns regarding the exploitation of children in organized begging. This intervention occurs despite a 2024 U.S. State Department report indicating that Ghana fails to meet minimum standards for eliminating human trafficking, serving as a source, transit, and destination country within West Africa. The operation underscores ongoing governmental efforts to disrupt criminal networks that specifically target vulnerable women and children, reflecting broader regional challenges in combating modern slavery and forced labor practices.
AP News