BY Daniel Bampoe
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has taken proactive steps to strengthen cross-sector partnerships in the fight against human trafficking.
In a recent engagement, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director General of CID, met with executives of the Nigeria Transport Association in Ghana to enhance cooperation and preventive measures against the growing menace.
Highlighting the strategic importance of transport networks in the fight against trafficking, COP Donkor emphasized that traffickers often exploit buses, trucks, and other commercial transport systems to move victims across borders and within the sub-region.
She urged transport operators to stay vigilant, encouraging them to report any suspicious movements or activities directly to law enforcement.
“The cooperation of transport operators is critical in detecting and stopping human traffickers,” COP Donkor stated, noting that early detection can save lives and significantly disrupt criminal networks.
During the engagement, DCOP Solomon Ayawine Aboninga, Deputy Director General of CID, sensitized participants on the key indicators of human trafficking, highlighting behavioral signs, unusual travel patterns, and irregular documentation that may point to trafficking activities.
In addition, DSP William Ayaregah, Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, underscored the importance of prompt reporting of suspected cases to ensure swift intervention and victim protection.
Representing the Nigeria Transport Association, Deputy Secretary Prince Rotimi Adeye pledged full support to the CID administration, assuring that members of the Association would work closely with law enforcement to help curb trafficking activities and protect vulnerable populations.
Human trafficking remains a persistent challenge in West Africa, with victims often exploited for labor, sexual exploitation, or other criminal purposes.
The Ghana Police Service has increasingly relied on multi-stakeholder collaborations, recognizing that transport operators, community leaders, and other civil society actors play a vital role in identifying and preventing trafficking.
