31 persons arrested for engaging in prostitution and human trafficking
Some 31 persons have been arrested for engaging in prostitution and human trafficking around the Bafana Bafana Resort, located in the Western Region.
The Western Regional Command of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), operating through its Axim Sector Command apprehended the suspects.
GIS, in a statement, said the intelligence-led operation, spanning two days, commenced with a sweep of the aforementioned brothel, as well as adjacent drinking establishments and makeshift structures in the Essiama area.
Among those arrested include the proprietor and manager of the resort, Kofi Bekoe, aged 62, two suspected human trafficking facilitators, Ndubueze Okereke (aged 37) and his wife, Ifeoma Okereke (aged 35), both Nigerians and two nursing mothers.
Mr Bekoe, a Ghanaian, is believed to be the leader of the suspected trafficking syndicate.
The GIS stated that “this operation was conducted in cooperation with local authorities due to increasing concerns about illicit activities, particularly by some foreign nationals within these communities, and the apparent audacity with which the brothel operated”.
Investigations uncovered that all the suspects had entered the country illegally, lacking passports or any other travel identification documents.
Further searches of the individuals and the premises unveiled used and unused condom packages, particularly in the rooms.
Notably, Mr. Bekoe had been arrested several months ago and granted bail as part of ongoing investigations into a case of harboring foreign nationals engaged in prostitution.
This action is contrary to Act 29 of the Criminal Code of 1960, Aliens’ Registration Regulation 1974 (L.I. 856), and Section 13 of the Immigration Service Act 2000 (ACT 573), among other relevant Ghanaian legislations.
The suspects are currently in the custody of the Western Regional Command Headquarters for further investigation, prosecution, and potential repatriation to their home country.
Below is a statement to that effect.