150 Ghanaians detained in U.S. awaiting deportation for various offenses, says Foreign Minister
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that 150 Ghanaians are currently held in detention at various facilities across the United States, awaiting deportation for offenses such as rape, internet fraud, and illegal entry.
During a speech in Parliament on Wednesday, Hon. Ablakwa confirmed that 50 of these detainees have been issued final deportation orders and are scheduled to be repatriated by mid-year.
“The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed.”
His remarks followed his summons to Parliament to address concerns regarding the deportation of Ghanaians from the United States. The request was made by Assin South Member of Parliament, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour.
The North Tongu MP disclosed that one Ghanaian detainee had been released on medical grounds after US authorities were approached on his behalf.
He also mentioned that three Ghanaians have been processed for deportation and are set to depart the US on commercial flights scheduled for 19 March, 28 March, and 1 April 2025.
Additionally, the Ghanaian Embassy in Washington has conducted interviews with 10 detainees to confirm their nationalities and ensure they have received fair hearings. These individuals are now waiting for flight tickets from the US Department of Homeland Security before their deportation travel documents can be issued.
Lawmakers have called on the government to assist the deportees and take steps to better manage migration.
