A joint taskforce comprising the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Immigration Service has arrested 28 foreign nationals and several landlords in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region for unlawful entry and residency.
The suspects were apprehended during an operation at their residences in Pakyi No.1 and Pakyi No.2.
The District Chief Executive for Amansie West, Prince Manu Morris, explained that the landlords were arrested for renting out accommodation to foreigners without the knowledge or approval of the district assembly.
He cautioned landlords to strictly verify the immigration status of prospective tenants before offering accommodation, stressing that renting to undocumented immigrants is a violation of Ghana’s laws.
“Landlords must verify the status of tenants before renting out their properties. Renting to undocumented immigrants is against the laws of Ghana,” he stated.
Mr Morris further indicated that the Amansie West District Assembly, in collaboration with the Immigration Service, will continue to clamp down on foreigners who unlawfully enter and settle in the area.
He added that many of the suspects are believed to be involved in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, as well as other criminal activities that undermine the reputation of Manso and its surrounding communities.
“These individuals are mostly engaged in galamsey and other illegal activities which tarnish the name of Manso and its enclave. The operation does not end today; it will continue,” he said.
The exercise marks the second joint operation by the district assembly and the Ghana Immigration Service aimed at addressing the presence of undocumented immigrants in the district.
