Enugu Police Smash Human Trafficking Scheme, Rescue Woman Forced Into Prostitution in Mali

The Enugu State Police Command has uncovered a transnational human trafficking ring and rescued a 25-year-old woman who was allegedly lured abroad and forced into prostitution in Mali.

Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed in a statement on Tuesday that a 69-year-old suspect, identified as Eze Boniface, was arrested on January 21, 2026, by operatives attached to the Igbo-Eze North Police Division.

The arrest the police followed a complaint filed by the victim’s parents.

According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, working with accomplices who are currently at large, allegedly deceived the victim and her family in May 2023 with promises of securing her employment in a textile company overseas, where she was expected to earn 100 dollars daily.

Instead, the victim reportedly ended up in Mali, where she was allegedly exploited for prostitution.

The trafficking syndicate is said to have made approximately 500,000 CFA francs from her exploitation.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr. Bitrus Giwa, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to intensify efforts to dismantle the trafficking network, track down other members of the syndicate, and investigate any related criminal activities.

Mr. Giwa also cautioned parents, guardians, and young people to be vigilant and wary of offers promising lucrative jobs and better lives abroad, warning that such promises are often used by traffickers to lure unsuspecting victims.

The police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects connected to the case.