The United Kingdom continues to take decisive action against organised immigration crime through a mix of proactive and reactive measures aimed at dismantling criminal networks and protecting border integrity.
These efforts — including arrests, asset seizures and prosecutions — have significantly disrupted the operations of organised crime groups.
In 2022, several incidents involving the illegal facilitation of migration using fraudulent travel documents were detected on flights departing Kotoka International Airport in Accra to the UK.
Following these discoveries, the British High Commission formally referred the matter to Ghana’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), leading to the arrest of Julian Kyere Akoto-Bamfo on charges of migrant smuggling.
During proceedings at the Ghana Supreme Court in 2025, Akoto-Bamfo was granted bail but subsequently failed to appear in court. His sureties, valued at GH¢45,000, were later forfeited.
On January 14, 2026, Akoto-Bamfo was convicted and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment with hard labour and a fine of GH¢12,000.
The trial was conducted in his absence, and he remains wanted by the Ghana Police Service.
Commenting on the case, the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr Christian Rogg, said it underscored the strength of cooperation between the two countries in tackling organised immigration crime.
“This case demonstrates the strength of UK–Ghana cooperation in tackling organised immigration crime,” he said.
“We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt criminal networks and protect the integrity of our borders.”
The Director General of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service, COP Lydia Donkor, said the collaboration reflected Ghana’s resolve to prevent the country from becoming a refuge for organised crime.
“Our work with the British High Commission reflects our commitment to ensuring that Ghana does not become a safe haven for organised crime,” she said, adding that authorities would “pursue justice relentlessly.”
The case also forms part of a broader global effort to combat visa fraud and illegal migration.
In November 2025, the High Commissions of Australia, Canada and the UK launched a joint public education campaign during International Fraud Awareness Week, warning of the dangers of visa scams and promoting safe and legitimate application practices.
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