The Ghanaian Foreign Minister is investigating reports of 14 nationals allegedly fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war and has called for public assistance to locate them. Preliminary findings indicate potential deception by recruitment agencies. Additionally, the Ministry is aiding Ghanaians facing deportation from the U.S., aiming to respect their dignity and assist in reintegration.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that the Ghanaian government is investigating reports of 14 Ghanaians believed to be involved in the Russia-Ukraine war. During a press briefing in Accra, ahead of the ECOWAS 50th Anniversary launch, Mr. Ablakwa highlighted the difficulties faced by the Ghana mission in Moscow, which has been assigned to verify a viral video that suggests the individuals’ presence in the conflict zone.
Mr. Ablakwa mentioned that the Russian Ambassador to Ghana has denied knowledge of the reported situation. Preliminary investigations indicate that some Ghanaians may have been misled by private recruitment agencies, which promised employment opportunities in Russia or Ukraine, presumably placing them in war zones as mercenaries.
He called upon the Ghanaian public for assistance in locating these individuals, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to their safety. The Minister urged anyone who has information about relatives potentially caught in the conflict to contact the Ministry, noting that no further credible information has emerged beyond the viral video, which has since disappeared.
Regarding the deportation of Ghanaians from the United States, Mr. Ablakwa detailed the Ministry’s efforts to support those facing deportation. The approach has been humanitarian, with efforts focused on welcoming returnees and facilitating their reintegration and reunion with families, conducted quietly to maintain their dignity and privacy.
He reported that, as per the latest update, approximately 160 Ghanaians remain on the U.S. deportation list, with no changes since the previous report from the mission in Washington. The Minister reassured the public that ongoing efforts are in place to secure the safe return of these Ghanaian citizens currently in precarious situations abroad.
The Ghanaian government is actively investigating reports of Ghanaians involved in the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting challenges in locating them despite a viral video. Additionally, the Ministry is providing support for Ghanaians facing deportation from the United States. The authorities emphasize the importance of protecting the dignity of citizens and continue to work towards ensuring their safe return, both from the conflict zone and deportation list.
Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com
