In a significant development in the fight against human trafficking, the Ashaiman District Court has remanded three individuals into police custody on allegations of conspiracy to commit human trafficking and human trafficking. The accused, identified as Peter Okoyie (also known as Lea), Shadrak Jolly, and Ezekiel Jolly, were arraigned before the court on October 9, 2025.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The accused face charges of conspiracy to commit a crime, specifically human trafficking, as well as direct charges of human trafficking. During the court session presided over by Mr. Derick Parden Eshun, the pleas of the accused were not taken due to their lack of legal representation.
The court has remanded the suspects into police custody, with their next court appearance scheduled for October 23, 2025. Additionally, the court has directed the police to forward five mobile phones retrieved from the accused to the Cyber Crime Unit at the Police Headquarters in Accra for further investigation.
Details of the Operation
The arrests followed an operation conducted by the Zenu-Atadeka District Police Patrol Team on October 7, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m. The operation targeted a group allegedly involved in luring victims from Nigeria to Ghana under false pretenses.
According to police reports, the suspects confined their victims and coerced them into participating in internet fraud schemes. The victims were subjected to severe physical abuse and forced to swear oaths of allegiance. They were also trained to create fraudulent romantic relationships online to defraud individuals in foreign countries.
The victims endured deplorable conditions, including being locked indoors for extended periods. Reports indicate they were allowed to eat only once a day at 3 p.m., use toilet facilities once a week, and bathe once a week.
Items Retrieved and Victim Rescue
During a subsequent search of the suspects’ residence in Peaceland, near Ashaiman, law enforcement retrieved several items that are now being held as evidence. These items include laptops, routers, mobile phones, household goods, and foodstuffs.
In a positive turn of events, seven victims who had been confined for approximately eight months were rescued during the operation.
Support for Victims and Next Steps
Superintendent Olivia Turkson, Zenu-Atadeka District Police Commander, confirmed that the police are working closely with the Ghana Immigration Service to ensure the safe repatriation of the victims back to Nigeria.
Meanwhile, ASP Dede Dzakpasu, Public Relations Officer of the Tema Regional Police Command, has urged members of the public to report any suspected cases of human trafficking or cybercrime activities to the authorities. This appeal underscores the importance of community involvement in combating these heinous crimes.
Conclusion
This case highlights the persistent threat posed by human trafficking and cybercrime in our communities. The swift action by law enforcement serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and collaboration in addressing these issues. As investigations continue, it is hoped that justice will be served for both the victims and society at large.
Authorities remain committed to ensuring that those involved in such criminal activities are held accountable while providing support to victims as they rebuild their lives.
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Curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
