Mariam Yussif, a 24-year-old Nigerian woman, was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment with hard labour on October 22, 2026, by the Gender-Based Violence Court in Tamale. The sentence followed her conviction for human trafficking linked to the recruitment and movement of victims from Nigeria to Ghana for sexual exploitation.
Yussif and her 22-year-old sister, Precious Clement, were arrested on August 17, 2026, at Yendi by the Northern Regional Police Command. Authorities launched an investigation into their alleged involvement in trafficking operations. Yussif was charged under Section 2(1) of the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) and appeared before the court on August 19, where she pleaded not guilty.
The trial experienced several adjournments before concluding with Yussif’s conviction. She was subsequently transferred to Tamale Central Prison to commence her sentence.
The Northern Regional Police Command confirmed no case was established against Clement, who was released. Two victims connected to the trafficking case were repatriated to Nigeria and reunited with their families.
The police emphasised the need for evidence to establish individual responsibility in trafficking investigations. They described the conviction as a result of intelligence-led operations, thorough investigations, and effective prosecution.
Human trafficking involves the recruitment, movement, or receipt of people by prohibited means for exploitation. Sexual exploitation is one form of abuse traffickers pursue.
The Northern Regional Police Command urged the public to report suspected trafficking cases to appropriate authorities, reiterating its aim to protect vulnerable people and pursue those involved in trafficking.
The case concluded prosecutions linked to Yussif while underscoring the complexity of trafficking investigations, where not all suspects are found guilty. The authorities continue to encourage citizens to remain vigilant and provide information to assist law enforcement efforts.
According to Joy Online.
