GIS to scour homes for illegal migrants

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has served notice it is going to embark on an exercise to fish out all illegal migrants residing in the country.

According to the Service, officers will identify themselves before visiting various premises to conduct the search.

Section 52(1)(b) of the immigration Act 200 (Act 573) states that a person who knowingly harbours any person whom he knows is to be deported or has reasonable grounds to believe has acted in contravention of this Act commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding GH¢1,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.

In a statement signed and issued by the Comptroller-General, Kwame Asuah Takyi, on Monday, landlords and property owners have been urged to cooperate with officers.

“Landlords and owners of properties are further cautioned that, the obstruction or prevention of an officer of the GIS from carrying out his lawful duty is an offence under the Immigration Act.”

They have been consequently advised to demand proof of residence or legal stay of foreign nationals before giving their properties out to them.

“Severe sanctions will be applied all who breach the law by obstructing the Immigration Officer(s) from performing his/her lawful duty(ies).”