Police rescue Nigerian woman trafficked to Mali for prostitution
Nigeria Police Arrest Three Suspected Human Traffickers, Rescue Victim
The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended three individuals believed to be part of an international human trafficking network and has rescued a 21-year-old woman who was reportedly sold into prostitution in Mali.
The victim, identified as Godiya Amos from Akwanga in Nasarawa State, was lured abroad in September 2026 under the pretense of securing a lucrative job. Instead, she was handed over to a prostitution syndicate operating near gold-mining camps in Mali.
Investigations by the police indicated that one of the suspects, 28-year-old Orgba Solomon, allegedly recruited Amos and sold her for CFA 420,000 (approximately N770,000). Following her sale, they confiscated her phone and travel documents, and she was subsequently transported through Lagos and the Republic of Benin via illegal routes.
Reports suggest that after her arrival at the destination, Amos was subjected to physical abuse for refusing to engage in prostitution and was coerced into taking a blood oath before being exploited sexually.
Her rescue was the result of an intelligence-led operation conducted by the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) between October 1 and 27, following a report made by her sister. The operation also led to the arrest of Daniel Aondofa, 26; Orgba Solomon, 28; and Thankgod Ocho, 25, all from Benue State. In addition to Amos, three other female victims were rescued and reunited with their families.
During interviews, Amos informed investigators that approximately 42 other Nigerian women remained trapped in a makeshift camp in a remote mining area in Mali, where they were allegedly enduring forced prostitution under dire conditions.
While presenting the suspects, Assistant Commissioner of Police Godfrey Victor noted that the trio had confessed to their involvement and provided information that led to the victim’s location. He stated that investigations are ongoing to identify additional members of the trafficking network and to rescue more victims.
The police are advising Nigerians to thoroughly verify overseas employment offers and to report any suspected human trafficking activities to local authorities.
