A recent report from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reveals that 2,470 Ghanaian nationals are currently being held in US detention facilities awaiting deportation. This figure marks one of the highest on record and is attributed to the intensified immigration enforcement measures implemented by the Trump administration.
Increased Arrests and Deportations
According to the data, 478 Ghanaians have been arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) this year under the Global Enforcement Initiative, launched in April to accelerate deportations. Between January and August, 312 Ghanaians were deported, primarily for criminal offenses, immigration violations, or visa overstays.
Contrasting Figures
It’s worth noting that Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, previously reported that 150 Ghanaians were in US detention centers awaiting deportation. However, the DHS data suggests a significantly higher number.
US Immigration Enforcement
The Trump administration has been actively enforcing stricter immigration policies, with a focus on deporting individuals who have committed crimes or overstayed their visas. This approach has led to increased deportations and detentions, affecting many Ghanaian nationals residing in the US.