Nicky Isabella, a 22-year-old woman, has been sentenced to five years of hard labor after being convicted of child trafficking and human exploitation by the Achimota Circuit Court.
Isabella was found guilty of conspiracy and human trafficking charges related to two young women she had deceived into a life of exploitation.
In May 2024, Isabella, along with an accomplice named Nelly (who remains at large), lured two women—Grace Ebeagbor and Kikelomo John—into a false promise of employment at a retail store in Ability Square, located in the Adjiringanor area of Accra.
However, upon their arrival, the victims were coerced into prostitution, with Isabella taking control of their earnings. In a chilling move to intimidate them, Isabella threatened to use the women’s hair for spiritual purposes if they tried to flee, forcing them to cut their hair and swear an oath on the Bible.
Despite her conviction, Isabella, who was seen crying on camera, denied all charges, maintaining that she, too, was a victim in the situation.
Her defense was overpowered by compelling evidence presented during the trial, which included testimonies from three witnesses and strong arguments from Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Isaac Babayi, who led the prosecution.
The court handed down the sentence to send a strong message, emphasizing the need for harsh penalties to deter others from engaging in similar criminal activities.
Isabella’s accomplice, Nelly, remains at large, and authorities are continuing their search for her.
