Police, UK High Commission pursue immigration crime networks

The United Kingdom has intensified action against Organised Immigration Crime (OIC) through measures to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard its borders. 

A statement issued in Accra said the actions included arrests, asset seizures and prosecutions aimed at preventing organised crime groups from operating at previous levels. 

It said that in 2022, several incidents involving the illegal facilitation of migration using fraudulent travel documents were detected on flights from the Kotoka International Airport in Accra to the United Kingdom. 

Following the detections, the British High Commission referred a case to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, leading to the arrest of Julian Kyere Akoto-Bamfo, who was charged with migrant smuggling. 

According to the statement, during proceedings at the Circuit Court in 2025, the accused was granted bail but failed to appear, resulting in the forfeiture of his sureties amounting to GH¢45,000. 

It said that on January 14, 2026, Akoto-Bamfo was convicted and sentenced in absentia to five years’ imprisonment with hard labour and fined GH¢12,000, adding that he remains wanted by the Ghana Police Service. 

Dr Christian Rogg, British High Commissioner to Ghana, was quoted as saying: “This case demonstrates the strength of UK-Ghana cooperation in tackling organised immigration crime. We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt criminal networks and protect the integrity of our borders.” 

COP Lydia Donkor, Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department, Ghana Police Service, also said: “Our work with the British High Commission reflects our commitment to ensuring that Ghana does not become a safe haven for organised crime. We will pursue justice relentlessly.” 

The statement noted that the case formed part of broader global efforts to combat visa fraud and illegal migration. 

In November 2025, the High Commissions of Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom launched a joint campaign during International Fraud Awareness Week to educate the public on the dangers of visa scams and promote safe visa application practices. 

Source: GNA