Nicky Isabella, a 22-year-old hairdresser, has been sentenced to five years in prison by the Achimota Circuit Court for trafficking two Nigerian women into Ghana under the false pretense of employment opportunities.
Isabella, also known as Bella, promised the victims, aged 22 and 23, supermarket jobs in the Adjiringanor area of Accra.
However, upon their arrival in May 2024, the women were forced into prostitution and had their earnings seized.
The court’s decision was made on Friday, April 4, 2025, after a full trial, with Judge Akosua Anokyewaa Adjepong presiding.
Prosecutors revealed that Isabella, in collaboration with an accomplice named Nelly—who remains at large—had coordinated the trafficking operation and exploited the victims once they reached Ghana.
Investigations revealed that Isabella confiscated the women’s earnings and coerced them into taking an oath on a Bible.
She also subjected them to a ritual in which she cut their pubic hair, threatening to use it against them if they resisted.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Isaac Babayi, who led the prosecution, described the crime as premeditated and exploitative, urging the court to impose a harsh sentence as a deterrent to others.
In sentencing, the judge considered Isabella’s age, her status as a first-time offender, and the time she had already spent in custody.
However, the court noted her lack of remorse and the severity of her actions. Isabella, who did not have legal representation, was seen in tears as the sentence was handed down.
Court records revealed that Isabella confessed to forcing the women into prostitution, seizing their earnings, and using spiritual threats to control them.
A search of her residence turned up a notebook that tracked the victims’ earnings, as well as a bundle of human hair, which was believed to be used in her intimidation tactics.
The victims have since been rescued and are receiving psychological support. Authorities are actively searching for Isabella’s accomplice, Nelly, who is still on the run.
The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Ghana Police Service is continuing their efforts to locate and arrest her.
Deputy Superintendent of Police William Ayariga, head of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, reaffirmed the country’s firm stance against human trafficking.
“Ghana will not become a refuge for traffickers,” he stated. “Those who prey on vulnerable individuals will face the full consequences of the law.”
He also highlighted the unit’s successes, including securing nine convictions last year, one of which involved a landmark 20-year sentence.
“We are committed to continuing our work to arrest, investigate, and prosecute offenders,” DSP Ayariga added.