22-Year-Old Hairdresser Jailed for Trafficking Nigerian Women Into Prostitution in Ghana
A 22-year-old Nigerian hairdresser, Nicky Isabella, also known as Bella, has been sentenced to five years in prison by the Achimota Circuit Court in Ghana for trafficking two young Nigerian women under the false promise of employment.
The victims, aged 22 and 23, were lured to Accra, Ghana in May 2024 with the promise of supermarket jobs but were instead forced into prostitution upon arrival. Isabella seized their earnings and made them swear an oath using the Bible and their pubic hair, threatening them with spiritual harm if they disobeyed.
The court, presided over by Mrs. Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, delivered the judgment on April 4, 2025, after a full trial. Although Isabella had no legal representation, she admitted to the crime, and evidence—including a notebook tracking the victims’ earnings and a bundle of human hair—was found in her home.
The prosecution, led by ASP Isaac Babayi, described the crime as premeditated and exploitative, calling for a stiff sentence to deter others. The judge noted Isabella’s young age and time spent in custody but emphasized her lack of remorse and the gravity of the offence.
The victims have since been rescued and are receiving psychosocial support, while the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit is actively pursuing Isabella’s accomplice, Nelly, who remains at large.
Reacting to the case, DSP William Ayariga, Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, reaffirmed Ghana’s zero tolerance for human trafficking, warning that traffickers would be arrested, prosecuted, and jailed without exception.
“Ghana is not a haven for human traffickers. We are not slowing down,” Ayariga vowed.
