GTA and EOCO Partner to Crack Down on Illegal Travel Agencies Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched a strategic collaboration with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to address a surge in illegal travel and tour operations. This move comes as the authorities respond to a growing number of public complaints regarding fraudulent activities within the travel sector. Central to this enforcement drive is the protection of citizens from unscrupulous operators who are increasingly offering fake visa and travel packages, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.

GTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Maame Efua Houadjeto, recently initiated high-level discussions with EOCO leadership to finalize frameworks for swift enforcement and monitoring. According to the GTA, the influx of unauthorized travel agents poses a significant risk to the integrity of the tourism industry. Deputy CEO Ekow Sampson underscored the authority's commitment to sanitizing the sector, emphasizing that only licensed operators should facilitate international travel arrangements. The partnership aims to leverage EOCO’s investigative powers to identify and prosecute entities operating without the requisite regulatory approval.

EOCO’s Deputy Executive Director has expressed strong support for the initiative, praising the GTA for its proactive stance in safeguarding the public. The collaboration is expected to enhance intelligence sharing and joint field operations to root out bad actors who target unsuspecting travelers. By targeting fraudulent schemes that exploit the high demand for international sports events, both organizations hope to restore public confidence in local travel services. This crackdown is seen as a vital step in maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a well-regulated and secure tourism hub.

Beyond the immediate threat of World Cup-related scams, this partnership signals a broader regulatory shift toward stricter compliance in Ghana’s tourism and hospitality industry. The GTA has urged prospective travelers to verify the licensing status of agencies before making payments or sharing sensitive documents. As enforcement measures intensify, the authority plans to continue its public education campaigns to help citizens distinguish between legitimate operators and illicit schemes, ensuring that the travel sector contributes positively to the national economy without compromising consumer safety.