A 22-year-old hairdresser has been sentenced to five years in prison by a court in Accra for trafficking two young Nigerian women into Ghana and forcing them into prostitution.
Nicky Isabella, known as Bella, was convicted by the Achimota Circuit Court after being found guilty of luring the victims under false promises of employment. She claimed she would help them secure jobs at a supermarket in the Adjiringanor area, but instead, she forced them into sex work and took control of their earnings.
The victims, aged 22 and 23, were brought into Ghana in May 2024. Upon their arrival, their situation quickly changed. Isabella seized their money, made them swear an oath on a Bible, and allegedly cut their pubic hair as part of a ritual to keep them under control. She threatened to use the hair in spiritual attacks if they tried to escape or disobeyed her instructions.
The case was heard by Judge Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong, who delivered the ruling on April 4, 2025. While she acknowledged that Isabella was young and had no prior criminal record, she also pointed out her lack of remorse and the serious harm she caused. Isabella, who represented herself without a lawyer, reportedly cried in court as the sentence was read.
Investigators found a notebook in Isabella’s home where she kept records of the victims’ daily income. A bundle of human hair was also discovered, believed to be part of her method of control over the women. The two victims have since been rescued and are receiving psychological care.
Police say Isabella didn’t act alone. She worked with another woman, known only as Nelly, who is still on the run. The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Ghana Police Service has launched a manhunt to find and arrest her.
DSP William Ayariga, head of the Unit, said Ghana will not allow human traffickers to operate within its borders. He stressed that anyone involved in trafficking or forced prostitution will face justice. According to him, nine convictions were secured in 2024 alone, including a notable 20-year sentence.
He assured the public that law enforcement will continue its efforts to protect vulnerable people from exploitation. The case has reignited discussions about cross-border trafficking and the need for stronger protections for young women seeking jobs abroad.