E/R: 45 trafficked children rescued

In a decisive move against human trafficking in the Eastern Region, the Suhum Municipal Assembly, in collaboration with Engage Now Africa and the Ghana Immigration Service, has successfully rescued 45 children believed to be victims of trafficking and exploitation.

The operation, described as one of the most coordinated anti-human trafficking efforts in recent times, underscores a renewed commitment by municipal authorities and stakeholders to combat the rising threat of child trafficking within the Suhum enclave and beyond.

According to officials, the victims were lured by traffickers through deceptive promises of education, employment, or a better life — a common tactic used by trafficking syndicates operating across regional lines.

The victims, mostly minors, were rescued from locations where they were either being prepared for transport or already held in exploitative conditions.

Municipal Chief Executive for Suhum, Lydia Sarah Ohenewa, speaking at a press briefing, emphasized that the Assembly is fully committed to rooting out trafficking activities in the area.

“We will not tolerate the use of our communities for criminal activities,” she declared. “This is a fight we must all join. No child should be exploited for someone else’s gain.”

Lydia Ohenewa echoed similar sentiments and urged residents to remain vigilant.

“Traffickers often appear as saviours or job recruiters, but behind their smiles are intentions that shatter the lives of vulnerable children,” she warned.

“We call on landlords and property owners to be responsible. Renting spaces to harbour trafficked victims is a crime — and the law will deal with offenders appropriately.”

The rescue effort drew on the resources and personnel of several government agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, the Department of Social Welfare, the Ghana Health Service, and the Ghana Education Service.

Community members also played a role by reporting suspicious activity and supporting the safe recovery of the victims.

The rescued children are currently undergoing medical evaluations, counselling, and social reintegration assessments.

Engage Now Africa and the Department of Social Welfare are overseeing their rehabilitation, while cross-border collaboration is ongoing to assist foreign nationals among the victims.

In recent years, Suhum has emerged as a critical transit point due to its proximity to Accra and its location along major transport routes.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing to apprehend the traffickers behind the network, and more arrests are expected in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the Suhum Municipal Assembly has vowed to intensify community awareness campaigns and preventive education to stop the menace at its roots.