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 activities considered threats to national security.
Speaking during a meeting with GIS Regional Commanders in Accra, the Interior Minister expressed concern over the growing street begging menace in Ghana, describing the practice as unlawful and a potential threat to public safety and national security.
The Minister stressed that street begging is not permitted in Ghana and urged the Ghana Immigration Service to take stronger measures to address the situation.
He reminded immigration officers that they play a critical role in protecting Ghana’s territorial integrity because they are responsible for monitoring the entry and exit of people into and out of the country.
According to Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, Immigration Officers must strengthen their operations and remain vigilant in order to protect Ghana’s borders and national security.
Interior Minister Warns Immigration Officers
The Interior Minister also issued a strong warning to GIS officers who compromise immigration procedures or engage in illegal activities.
He stated that officers found violating the law or undermining the immigration system would face severe disciplinary and legal action.
Regional Commanders were consequently instructed to communicate the directive to officers across the country and ensure that their operations do not undermine peace, national security and Ghana’s territorial integrity.
GIS Asked to Work With Landlords
As part of efforts to address illegal immigration and street begging, the Interior Minister called on Immigration Officers to collaborate with landlords to properly identify and profile tenants residing in their properties.
The directive is expected to strengthen efforts to identify individuals who may be staying in Ghana without the necessary immigration documentation.
The Interior Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the street begging problem, strengthening border management and maintaining peace and security across Ghana.
The latest directive forms part of broader efforts by the government and security agencies to improve immigration control, border security and national security while ensuring compliance with Ghana’s immigration laws.
Source: newsthemegh.com