Police arrest 15 in Koforidua over alleged sex trafficking, prostitution

The New Juaben South Municipal Police Command has apprehended 15 females aged 15 to 35 years for alleged human trafficking and commercial sex offenses.

The arrest was made following a complaint by a commercial sex worker who was abused by her trafficker and boyfriend for not meeting her daily sales target.

The police operation also resulted in the arrest of landlords who had converted their properties into brothels, charging GH¢25 daily.

Municipal Commander Superintendent Ransford Nsiah warned landlords involved in such activities to desist or face immediate sanctions during a press briefing on recent law enforcement operations on prostitution and human trafficking at the Central Police Station in Koforidua on Tuesday, February 10.

“Last Sunday, we received a complaint from another Nigerian lady that she had been assaulted by her mistress, whom we normally call a ‘queen mother.’ The assault happened because she could not meet the daily target of GH¢400 set by the queen mother.

“We also arrested another man who had constructed a house and turned it into a brothel where the women are staying.

“He collects GH¢25 per day from them. So far, about 15 persons, the youngest aged between 15 years and 32 years, are in police custody and will be put before the court immediately,” ASP Asante Kusi Augustine said.

The Municipal Crime Officer expressed concern about the involvement of minors in commercial sex work, and called on the general public to provide information that will lead to the arrest of sex-traffickers.