By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
Accra, Ghana – November 21, 2025
Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior has initiated an investigation into the treatment of Rabiatu Kuyateh, a Sierra Leonean woman who was forcibly removed from her hotel by officials of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) on November 12, 2025, and placed on a flight back to Sierra Leone.
The incident ignited widespread outrage after footage surfaced showing Kuyateh being dragged into a minivan by immigration officers, prompting condemnation from Sierra Leoneans worldwide.
Kuyateh was reportedly in transit through Ghana after being deported from the United States under an agreement between the U.S. and Ghana regarding the repatriation of nationals. Social media rapidly amplified the distressing images, leading to calls for accountability.
In response to the public outcry, Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, confirmed the launch of a thorough investigation. Describing the incident as “unfortunate,” Mubarak stated he was in communication with the GIS to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the use of force against Kuyateh. He emphasized that understanding the situation is a priority and requested a prompt report from the Comptroller General of the GIS.
Meanwhile, Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba, has urged for a fair and swift inquiry into the treatment of Kuyateh. In a statement, he expressed deep concern, insisting that her dignity and rights be upheld in accordance with international law and ECOWAS protocols.
Kaisamba also addressed comments from Minister Mubarak, who suggested Kuyateh may have been in a medical emergency during the incident. Without official documentation to confirm such claims, the High Commissioner questioned their validity, advocating for the communication of verified facts to the public.
“Our position is clear and firm: the dignity and rights of Sierra Leonean nationals must be upheld at all times,” Kaisamba asserted. He added that this incident has caused considerable distress among Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad and expressed hope that the investigation would adequately address the matter’s seriousness.
Additionally, the High Commissioner assured that the Sierra Leonean government will provide consular support to Kuyateh and any other nationals facing similar issues. He urged Sierra Leoneans to remain calm and avoid disseminating unverified information while the investigation is ongoing.
Kaisamba reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Ghana, emphasizing both nations’ commitment to collaboratively resolving this issue.
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