A 24-year-old Nigerian woman, identified as Mariam Yussif, has been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment with hard labour after being convicted of human trafficking in Ghana.
The sentence was handed down by the Gender-Based Violence Court in Tamale on October 22, 2026, following proceedings in which Yussif was found guilty of recruiting and transporting two victims from Nigeria to Ghana for sexual exploitation.
Her conviction falls under Section 2(1) of Ghana’s Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), which criminalises human trafficking. The case highlights continuing efforts by law enforcement agencies and the courts to address the exploitation of vulnerable people across national borders.
According to reports, Yussif and her 22-year-old sister, Precious Clement, were arrested in Yendi on August 17, 2026, as part of investigations into the alleged trafficking operation.
Yussif first appeared in court on August 19, where she pleaded not guilty to the charge. She was subsequently remanded into custody while the case proceeded through the judicial system.
Clement was also arrested during the operation, but she was later released after investigators reportedly determined that there was insufficient evidence to establish a case against her. Her release distinguishes her situation from that of Yussif, who was convicted following the court proceedings.
The two victims have reportedly been repatriated to Nigeria and reunited with their families. Their return forms part of efforts to protect trafficking survivors and help them reconnect with their support networks after experiencing exploitation.
Following the sentencing, Yussif was transferred to Tamale Central Prison to begin serving her seven-year term.
Human trafficking remains a serious concern for countries across West Africa, where criminal networks may exploit economic hardship, unemployment and the vulnerability of people seeking opportunities away from home. Victims can be recruited through promises of employment or a better life before being subjected to coercion, exploitation or other forms of abuse.
Ghana’s Human Trafficking Act provides a legal framework for prosecuting individuals involved in trafficking and protecting people affected by the crime. Investigations and prosecutions are important not only for holding offenders accountable but also for identifying victims and supporting their recovery.
The case also underscores the importance of cooperation between countries when alleged trafficking involves the recruitment and movement of people across borders. Coordination among police, immigration authorities, social welfare agencies and victim-support organisations can help investigations and facilitate the safe return of survivors.
The reported repatriation of the two victims represents an important development in the case, although their long-term recovery may require continued assistance and protection.
Yussif’s sentence follows the court’s finding of guilt and should be distinguished from the allegations initially investigated by police. Clement, meanwhile, was released after investigators reportedly found insufficient evidence to proceed against her.
Source: Thepressradio.com
