The Nigeria Police Force has arrested three suspected members of an international human trafficking network and rescued a 21-year-old Nigerian woman allegedly forced into prostitution in Mali.
According to The Guardian, the rescued woman also informed investigators that approximately 42 Nigerian women were being held in a remote gold-mining settlement and subjected to sexual exploitation.
The suspects were identified as Daniel Aondofa, 26, Orgba Solomon, 28, and Thankgod Ocho, 25.
Police uncover alleged trafficking network
Assistant Commissioner of Police Victor Ogbiede Godfrey disclosed that investigations linked the suspects to an alleged trafficking operation involving Nigeria, the Republic of Benin and Mali.
According to investigators, the principal victim was recruited in September after being promised employment abroad.
She was reportedly transported through Lagos and illegal border routes before reaching a mining settlement in Mali.
Police alleged that the victim’s phone and travel documents were confiscated, limiting her ability to contact her relatives.
Investigators also alleged that she was transferred to other traffickers for CFA420,000, estimated at approximately N770,000.
Victim alleges forced prostitution
The police said the woman experienced violence after refusing to participate in prostitution.
“Her refusal to engage in prostitution attracted severe beatings,” the police stated while describing the allegations.
Investigators disclosed that the victim was eventually rescued following intelligence gathered after her sister reported the incident.
Three other female victims were also rescued during the operation and reunited with their families.
Police intensify search for 42 women
Authorities said the rescued woman reported that approximately 42 Nigerian women remained trapped in a mining settlement in Mali.
Their movements were allegedly restricted, making escape difficult.
However, the number and circumstances of the remaining victims had not been independently confirmed through a rescue operation at the time of reporting.
The police said investigations were continuing to identify other members of the network and rescue additional victims.
The arrested suspects remain under investigation, and their alleged involvement has not been determined by a court.
