Police arrest 15 in Koforidua over sex trafficking and prostitution

Law enforcement authorities in Koforidua have arrested 15 women, aged between 15 and 35, in connection with alleged sex trafficking and commercial sex activities. The arrests were carried out by the New Juaben South Municipal Police Command following a complaint lodged by a sex worker who reported being assaulted for failing to meet her daily sales target.

Superintendent Ransford Nsiah, Municipal Police Commander, briefed the media on Tuesday, February 10, at the Central Police Station. He explained that the operation also led to the arrest of landlords who had converted their properties into brothels, charging GH¢25 per day for their use.

“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,” Nsiah stated.

The arrests highlight growing concerns about organized sex trafficking networks operating in the municipality. Municipal Crime Officer ASP Asante Kusi Augustine expressed alarm at the involvement of minors in the trade. He urged the public to assist police efforts by volunteering information that could lead to the arrest of traffickers.

The suspects are expected to face charges in court as authorities intensify crackdowns on human trafficking and illegal sex work in the region.