A 28-year-old Nigerian woman named Favour Ugwe has been sentenced to eight years in prison for her role in human trafficking.
She was found guilty of luring a 19-year-old woman from Chad and forcing her into prostitution in Ghana. The court, presided over by Her Honour Mrs. Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, not only sentenced Ugwe but also ordered her to pay GH¢5,000 as compensation to the victim.
The sentence will include hard labour, reflecting the court’s strong stance on the serious nature of her crime.
Ugwe was involved in recruiting the young woman with the help of a male accomplice from Abuja, Nigeria. She arranged the victim’s travel to Ghana under false pretences and forced her into sex work upon arrival.
After the victim arrived, Ugwe supplied her with various items, including clothing, condoms, and lubricants, which she had to use while engaging in sexual activities with clients in exchange for money.
Though Ugwe denied the charge of human trafficking during the trial, insisting on her innocence, the prosecution was able to build a solid case against her, with the testimony of two witnesses playing a crucial role in her conviction.
Throughout the trial, the court noted Ugwe’s apparent lack of remorse for her actions, a factor that likely influenced the severity of her sentence.
In delivering the judgement, the court acknowledged that Ugwe was a first-time offender and took into account her age, as well as the months she had already spent in custody.
However, the judge stressed the need to send a clear message regarding human trafficking, a crime that has been on the rise in the country.
Ugwe’s case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of exploiting vulnerable individuals for personal gain, as the country continues its efforts to combat such criminal activities.
Source: NewsandVibes.com