The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has reaffirmed the government’s determination to rid Ghana’s major cities of street beggars, dwellers, and prostitutes, describing the move as essential to national security and public order.
During a working visit to the Northern Region, the minister revealed that a nationwide operation will soon be launched in collaboration with security agencies, targeting street populations in five major cities, including Tamale.
He made the announcement on Thursday, May 22, at the commissioning of a four-storey, 24-unit apartment block built by the State Housing Company for the Ghana Immigration Service in Tamale.
“This is not just about public nuisance; it’s a security issue. We are committed to restoring decency and order to our urban spaces,” the minister stated.
Over 2,000 Foreign Beggars Arrested in Accra
Muntaka disclosed that a recent operation in Accra resulted in the arrest of over 2,000 foreign beggars. Nearly half have already been repatriated, with the remainder scheduled for removal by the end of the week.
He emphasized that the ministry’s approach is firm but lawful, noting that those remaining on the streets have been warned to return to their countries voluntarily or face forced removal.
Warning to Street Prostitutes
The minister also sent a clear message to prostitutes operating in public spaces, stating that they too would be targeted in the upcoming enforcement drive.
“We’re not just talking about beggars. We will also go after prostitutes who have taken over our streets. They should leave now, or we will remove them. We are not backing down,” he said.
Muntaka, who is also the MP for Asawase, underscored the broader objective of the campaign: to uphold public decency, safety, and national security in Ghana’s urban centres.
The planned operation is part of a broader urban sanitation and public order initiative being coordinated by the Ministry of the Interior and security agencies.
