Ghanaian authorities have deported 68 foreign nationals from the Ashanti Region after courts found them guilty of offences ranging from organised fraud to prostitution-related crimes.
Officials confirmed that Nigerians formed the largest group among those sent out of the country in the latest immigration enforcement exercise.
According to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, the deportations were carried out by the Ghana Immigration Service only after all legal proceedings had been completed. Those affected included 42 Nigerians, alongside citizens of Cameroon, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso. Amoakohene said the operation strictly followed court orders and was conducted in a manner that respected the dignity and rights of those involved.
Authorities explained that the action was aimed at strengthening public safety and curbing criminal networks operating across borders. While Ghana continues to support regional integration and free movement within Africa, officials stressed that these goals must be balanced with effective law enforcement. The development highlights the growing tension African states face between promoting open borders and responding to rising cross-border crime.