The Central North Regional Police Command has made a significant bust, arresting 42 individuals involved in prostitution and drug-related activities in the town of Ayamfuri, located in the Central Region.
The group consists of 32 Nigerian women suspected of engaging in prostitution, alongside 10 Ghanaian men believed to be involved in the illegal drug trade.
DCOP Abraham Acqaye, the Central North Police Commander, stated that the arrests were the result of an extensive operation targeting known hotspots for illegal activities. Some individuals were apprehended while actively participating in illicit acts, while others were caught in the vicinity of known crime areas.
Among the items seized during the operation were dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, concoctions laced with Indian hemp, cigarettes, and condoms, which were allegedly used in the prostitution activities. The suspects, aged between 20 and 32, are currently being held for questioning.
What makes this case particularly concerning, however, are the testimonies provided by some of the suspects. Several of the Nigerian women arrested claimed to be victims of human trafficking, alleging they were lured to Ghana under the pretense of finding legitimate work. Instead, they were reportedly coerced into prostitution, with some saying they were forced into exploitative situations to pay off debts to their traffickers, who demanded large sums of money for their release.
The police have launched a full investigation into these claims and are working with human trafficking experts to verify the suspects’ statements. Authorities are also looking into the broader network behind the trafficking operation, with a focus on both local and international links.
As the investigation progresses, the Central North Police Command has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, especially in areas prone to such criminal activities.
