The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has begun high-level collaboration with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to crack down on illegal travel and tour operators exploiting the public as excitement builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The joint effort follows a surge in complaints from members of the public about unscrupulous agencies allegedly defrauding unsuspecting clients with fake travel packages and visa arrangements tied to the global football tournament.

Concerned about the potential financial harm to citizens and the reputational risk to Ghana’s tourism sector, GTA Chief Executive Officer Maame Efua Houadjeto initiated the engagement to strengthen enforcement through inter-agency cooperation. The meeting was attended on her behalf by Deputy CEO in charge of Operations, Ekow Sampson, along with senior management staff.

Speaking for the CEO, Mr Sampson described the volume of complaints as disturbing and stressed the Authority’s resolve to sanitise the travel and tours space. He noted that as Ghana positions itself within the global tourism market, particularly ahead of major international events, safeguarding the public from exploitation and preserving industry credibility remain critical priorities.

Responding on behalf of EOCO, Deputy Executive Director in charge of Operations, Ndego, welcomed the initiative and described the partnership as both timely and necessary. He assured the GTA of EOCO’s full support in investigating and prosecuting illegal operators whose activities undermine trust and expose citizens to financial and travel risks.

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to coordinated enforcement, tighter regulatory oversight and compliance monitoring within the tourism industry.

Officials say the collaboration sends a clear message that fraudulent operators will be identified and held accountable as authorities work to ensure that Ghana’s travel ecosystem remains transparent, credible and safe for the public.