By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
There was widespread shock and public outrage in Abia State on Tuesday following a disturbing account by a young woman who narrated how several young women were allegedly lured, trafficked, and forced into brothel-related activities across multiple locations within and outside the state.
Information made available to investigators revealed that no fewer than 25 young women, believed to be from Ebonyi State, were allegedly recruited and moved under pressure by suspected traffickers.
Findings indicated that some of the alleged activities took place at Morning Star Hotel, Agulere, while other victims were reportedly distributed across different parts of Abia State and surrounding areas.
Some of the young women have reportedly been missing since October 2025.
A key complainant, identified simply as Divine, told authorities that she and her sister were deceived with promises of travel and better opportunities.
According to her, they agreed to the journey after being assured of safety and improved living conditions, only to later discover that they had been trapped in an exploitative arrangement.
Divine alleged that upon arrival, she became uncomfortable and attempted to resist but was allegedly threatened and intimidated into compliance.
She further claimed that the victims were closely monitored and instructed on how to avoid suspicion, including being coached on what to say if questioned about their situation or whether they were being controlled by anyone.
Further findings indicated that some of the alleged victims were frequently moved from one location to another to prevent them from forming contacts or seeking help.
This tactic reportedly made it difficult for families and security agencies to trace their whereabouts.
It was also gathered that relatives of several missing girls raised alarms after losing contact with them for months.
Some families reportedly traced their last communication to October 2025, when the girls left home after being promised employment or travel opportunities.
Security sources described the case as having the hallmarks of an organised human trafficking syndicate, with different individuals allegedly handling recruitment, transportation, and supervision of the victims.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the suspected masterminds and dismantle the network.
Meanwhile, human rights and child protection advocates have called for swift and decisive action, urging authorities to prioritise the rescue, rehabilitation, and counselling of the victims.
They also stressed the need for increased public awareness to prevent young women from falling prey to deceptive offers.
Law enforcement agencies have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to locate other missing girls linked to the case and bring all those responsible to justice, reiterating that the victims will be treated as survivors deserving protection, dignity, and support.
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