Notorious Nigerian Human Trafficking Ring Leader, Chukwudi Nwachuku, Sentenced to 10 Years in Ghana
In a landmark ruling aimed at strengthening the fight against human trafficking in West Africa, the Achimota Circuit Court in Accra has sentenced Nigerian national, Chukwudi Nwachuku, to 10 years in prison with hard labor for his involvement in trafficking ten young girls from Nigeria into Ghana and forcing them into prostitution.
The presiding judge, Her Honour Mrs. Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, delivered the ruling after the court found Nwachuku guilty of conspiracy to traffic persons, human exploitation, and operating a prostitution ring involving minors. The victims, aged 15 to 18, were smuggled into Ghana under false promises of employment and a better life, only to be coerced into commercial sex work.
Human trafficking remains a booming criminal enterprise in West Africa, with thousands of young girls falling victim to deceptive recruitment schemes every year. Ghana’s security agencies have intensified operations against cross-border traffickers, leading to several arrests in recent years.
The court also ordered Nwachuku to pay GH¢15,000 in restitution to each of the ten victims. The compensation is expected to aid their rehabilitation, counseling, and reintegration into society.
Anti-trafficking organizations have praised the court’s decision, describing it as a strong deterrent to trafficking syndicates exploiting porous borders between Ghana and Nigeria. They also urged authorities to continue monitoring and rescuing vulnerable minors at risk of exploitation.
The victims are currently under the care of social welfare services and are receiving medical attention, psychological support, and education on their rights.
Human trafficking is a serious crime under Ghanaian law, and offenders can face prison terms ranging from five to twenty-five years. The ruling against Nwachuku reinforces the government’s commitment to ending sexual exploitation, especially involving minors.
Authorities continue to investigate other potential accomplices linked to the trafficking network.