50 Ghanaians in U.S. Detention Set for Deportation by Mid-2025

50 Ghanaians currently detained in the United States are set to be deported by mid-2025 after receiving final removal orders, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, March 13, the minister provided an update on the situation, stating that 150 Ghanaians are currently in detention across various facilities in the U.S. for offenses such as illegal entry, internet fraud, and rape. Out of this number, 50 have received final deportation orders and will be repatriated in the coming months.

He further disclosed that deportation proceedings for three detainees had already been completed, with their return flights scheduled for March 19, March 28, and April 1, 2025. Meanwhile, the remaining 100 detainees either have ongoing appeals or have had their cases dismissed.

“Currently, there are 150 Ghanaians in detention across various centres in the US who are awaiting deportation for crimes such as rape, internet fraud, and illegal entry,” he said.

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According to the minister, Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Washington has been actively engaged in the matter. Authorities successfully intervened on behalf of one detainee, who was granted release due to health concerns. Additionally, the Ghanaian Embassy has conducted interviews with 10 individuals to verify their nationality and ensure due process was followed in their cases.

Mr. Ablakwa assured Parliament that the government remains committed to ensuring the rights of affected Ghanaians are upheld while working with U.S. officials to manage the deportation process.