The Achimota Circuit Court has sentenced 22-year-old hairdresser Nicky Isabella to five years in prison for trafficking two Nigerian women into Ghana with false promises of employment.
Isabella, known as Bella, deceived the victims, aged 22 and 23, by offering them jobs at a supermarket in Adjiringanor, Accra. However, upon their arrival in May 2024, they were forced into prostitution and had their earnings taken by Isabella.
The case was heard by Mrs. Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, who delivered the verdict on April 4, 2025. Prosecutors revealed that Isabella, with the help of an accomplice named Nelly (who remains at large), orchestrated the trafficking operation.
Upon their arrival in Ghana, the victims were coerced into swearing an oath on a Bible. Isabella even took pieces of their pubic hair, threatening to use them for rituals if they disobeyed her. The prosecution described the crime as premeditated and exploitative.
Despite Isabella’s age and her status as a first-time offender, the court found no remorse on her part and emphasized the severity of her actions. She broke down in tears when the sentence was delivered.
Evidence gathered during the investigation, including a notebook tracking the victims’ earnings and a bundle of human hair, confirmed that Isabella used spiritual threats to control the women. Both victims have since been rescued and are receiving psychological support.
The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Ghana Police Service is continuing its efforts to apprehend Isabella’s accomplice, Nelly. Deputy Superintendent of Police William Ayariga, head of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to combating human trafficking and sending a strong message that traffickers will face the full force of the law.
