Engage Now Africa, police and social welfare rescue 20 victims of internal trafficking

Engage Now Africa, in collaboration with the Ada East Police and the Ministry of Social Protection, successfully rescued 20 victims of internal trafficking in May.

Lydia Ohenewa, Program Manager (EMS), revealed that a good Samaritan from Futuanya in Ada East region alerted Engage Now Africa of the trafficking of 23 girls outside Ada East region.

The informant reported that some victims were promised lucrative jobs but were sent to places like Akosombo and Yeji, where their situation differed drastically from the promises made.

The investigation revealed that some girls were forced to work, while others were victims of sexual exploitation.

Twenty girls were confirmed to be trapped in human trafficking and exploitation. Members of the community watchdog were mobilized to assist in the rescue efforts.

Barbara Mensah Appiah, co-coordinator, highlighted that the growing demand for cheap labor and sexual services significantly contributes to human trafficking.

She cited poverty, lack of economic opportunity and prevailing social attitudes as root causes.

Lydia Ohewa expressed gratitude to the welfare officers for their role in rescuing and reintegrating the 20 victims into their communities.

Engage Now Africa, in partnership with United Way Ghana, signed a memorandum of understanding to support 15 of the 20 victims.

These 15 people are currently undergoing professional training, apprenticeships and education following independent assessments conducted by the Centraide team.

One of the victims' mothers, Mary's mother, expressed surprise and concern, urging other parents to remain vigilant even when dealing with loved ones.

She previously thought trafficking only took place outside the country.

Afasi Komla urged community members to report any suspicious activity to the Ghana Police Service or call the Engage Now Africa hotline.

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