GIS arrests six illegal Nigerian immigrants

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested six Nigerians for illegally entering Ghana through the Eastern Frontier.

A statement signed by Mr Acoi Francis Palmdeti, Head of Public Affairs of GIS and copied to the Ghana News Agency, said one of the illegal immigrants is also being investigated on suspicion of engaging in human trafficking and smuggling.

It said Blessing Okoje, a 29- year- old Nigerian lady residing in Ghana without resident permit, entered the country with five other ladies from Edo State with their ages ranging from 21 and 28 years without proper documentation.

The statement said she used an unapproved entry point with the assistance of some border residents.

They were however intercepted by officers of the Anti-Human Smuggling and Trafficking in persons Unit of the GIS stationed at the Sogakope in-land barrier.

During interrogations, Okoje, the Leader of the group claimed she is married to a Ghanaian and they both reside in Kumasi.

She also indicated that she and her spouse are about to set up a “chop bar” business, and she is bringing in the ladies to help run the business in order to save cost.

The GIS advised that, spouses of Ghanaians who are foreigners are required permits to reside in Ghana and the requirement does not exempt ECOWAS nationals.

The statement said persons who out of ignorance have not fulfilled the necessary requirements should approach the Receiving Counter of the GIS Headquarters or any of its regional offices without fail.

The GIS says it would collaborate with other security agencies to ensure that Ghana is not use as a safe haven for human smuggling and trafficking activities.