Three people have been arrested in the Upper East Region over allegations of human trafficking, forced prostitution and an attempted sale of a newborn baby, the Upper East Regional Police Command has announced.
According to police, the suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation in Gbane, in the Talensi District, following reports of a suspected human trafficking network operating in the area.
Investigators allege that the suspects lured young women from neighbouring Nigeria with false promises of better opportunities before exploiting them in Ghana.
Police said preliminary investigations indicate that one of the rescued women had been promised an acting career in Ghana but was instead taken to a mining community, where she was allegedly forced into prostitution.
Authorities further allege that the victim was required to make daily payments to her handlers from the money she earned through sex work. The allegations form part of an ongoing investigation, and police say further inquiries are being conducted to establish the full scope of the suspected trafficking operation.
Suspects Accused of Attempting to Sell Newborn
According to the Police Command, one of the victims gave birth on June 26, 2026.
Investigators allege that two of the suspects later attempted to convince the woman to sell her newborn baby for GH¢20,000 to an interested buyer.
Police said the alleged transaction was never completed, and the infant was rescued before any sale could take place.
Authorities stressed that investigations into the alleged attempted child sale remain ongoing.
During the operation, police rescued four female victims, believed to be between 18 and 20 years old.
The victims are currently receiving support while investigators gather additional evidence.
Police also recovered several items believed to be linked to the alleged operation, including record books containing names and other information as well as hundreds of unused condoms.
The recovered items have been retained as exhibits to assist with ongoing investigations.
The three suspects remain in police custody and are expected to appear before court once investigations are completed. Police have not announced any formal charges at this stage but say the suspects are assisting with investigations. Authorities also indicated that efforts are underway to identify any additional victims or individuals who may have been connected to the alleged trafficking network.
Police Renew Warning Against Human Trafficking
The Upper East Regional Police Command has reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of organised crime.
The Command urged members of the public to report suspicious activities involving the exploitation of vulnerable people, particularly women and children.
Police also encouraged communities to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely information that could help prevent similar offences.
Investigations into the case are continuing.
