Ghanaian authorities have repatriated 68 foreign nationals from the Ashanti Region after they were convicted by various courts for involvement in criminal activities, including prostitution, fraud related to the Q-Net network marketing scheme, and other offenses. The largest group among the deportees consists of 42 Nigerians, followed by 13 Cameroonians, seven Benin nationals, three Ivorians, and three Burkinabé nationals.
The announcement was made by Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, in a social media post dated December 18, 2025. In the statement, Amoakohene emphasized that the repatriations adhered strictly to legal processes, stating: “A total of 42 Nigerians, 13 Cameroonians, 3 Ivorians, 3 Burkinabe nationals, and 7 Benin nationals have been deported from the Ashanti Region to their respective countries following various court rulings involving Q-Net, prostitution, and other criminal activities.”
He further commended the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) for its role in the operation: “I commend the Ghana Immigration Service for its professionalism, diligence, and firm commitment to enforcing our immigration laws, while upholding due process and human dignity. Their collaboration with the courts and other security agencies continues to strengthen public safety, protect vulnerable persons, and preserve law and order in the region.”
Q-Net, also known as QuestNet or GoldQuest, is a multi-level marketing company that has faced allegations of operating as a pyramid scheme in several countries, including Ghana. Authorities have previously cracked down on its activities, viewing recruitment tactics as fraudulent. The inclusion of Q-Net in the minister's statement suggests that some deportees were involved in promoting or operating schemes linked to the company, leading to convictions.
This action aligns with Ghana's immigration enforcement efforts, particularly in the Ashanti Region, a commercial hub that attracts migrants from across West Africa. Under ECOWAS protocols, citizens of member states enjoy free movement, but criminal convictions can result in deportation as a penalty or post-sentence measure. The GIS routinely handles such cases, ensuring repatriation after judicial proceedings.
The deportations have drawn attention amid broader reports of heightened scrutiny on foreign nationals involved in crime across Africa. While Nigeria-Ghana relations remain strong historically, isolated incidents of crime linked to migrants occasionally strain public perception. However, officials on both sides have stressed individual accountability rather than collective measures.
No official response has been issued from the Nigerian High Commission in Accra or affected governments as of December 22, 2025. The repatriation process reportedly involved coordination to return individuals to their home countries safely.
This development underscores Ghana's commitment to rule of law in immigration matters, balancing regional integration with national security. Similar enforcement actions have occurred in the past, though not always on this scale in a single region.
