Police have arrested six women in a child trafficking case in Ghana’s Central East Region. The operation resulted in the rescue of three trafficked children.
The suspects are accused of luring children and selling an infant for GHS 35,000. One rescued child is a 10-month-old baby. A 7-year-old girl was also reportedly lured away by two of the suspects.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about child welfare and criminal networks operating in Ghana. The country has faced challenges with human trafficking in the past. Robust law enforcement is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations.
DSP Victor Kofi Dosoo, Head of Public Affairs for the Central East Regional Police Command, confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigations. The police statement detailed the timeline of events and the methods used by the syndicate.
The arrests stem from the disappearance of 7-year-old Kadija Karim on April 10. She reportedly told police she was tricked by Janet Larbie and Seikena Umar. They allegedly promised to take her to her mother but took her to an unknown location. The child was returned to Kasoa on April 11 with a warning not to speak about the incident. Janet Larbie was arrested first. Later, Mary Dotsey, Yvonne Twumasi, and Seikena Umar were apprehended.
Investigations also linked the suspects to a case where a parent released two children, aged 10 months and five years, for supposed care. The 10-month-old was taken to Asuofua Mampong in the Ashanti Region and sold to Grace Osei Afriyie and Regina Agyeiwaa for GHS 35,000. Police rescued this infant on April 28. Grace Osei Afriyie and Regina Agyeiwaa were arrested in the Ashanti Region.
Grace Osei Afriyie has been granted bail. Regina Agyeiwaa remains in custody. Janet Larbie, Mary Dotsey, Yvonne Twumasi, and Seikena Umar are on remand by the Ofaakor Circuit Court. Lucinda Naomi Otchere, identified as the syndicate’s leader and financier, along with Adjeiwaa and Hawa, are still being sought by police.
The rescue of the trafficked infant and the arrests signal progress in combating child trafficking. The police assure that all accomplices will be brought to justice. This case underscores the importance of vigilance by parents and communities in safeguarding children.