Ashaiman police saves alleged child trafficker from irate mob

The Tema regional police command is investigating a possible case of child trafficking involving a 48-year-old woman who has been kept in their custody after she was chased by a mob at the Ashaiman market Monday.

The trader named as Abiabela was seen at the market Monday with four children between the ages of five and eight.

According to eyewitnesses, the trader sat the children in a corner and selectively approached people asking for money and in some cases offered the services of her children in exchange.

One of the men she approached called the attention of others and accused her of attempting to sell the children.

A group immediately pounced on her, took the children and started beating her up until she was rescued by the Ashaiman police and placed in custody.

Speaking to StarrFMonline.com the Ashaiman police commander ACP Jonathan Adams Godo said although the mob was very confrontational, they could not provide credible evidence that could lead to a charge. She was therefore put under protective custody as investigations continue.

“They beat her up mercilessly and even besieged the police station chanting and agitating. The only thing is we cannot charge her of any crime if there is no evidence so for now we are still investigating as we keep her,” he said.

He added that the children also confirmed they are family.

“They said they live at Circle in Accra and only followed their mother to beg for alms at the Ashaiman market,” ACP Adams added.

He said Abiabela has now been transferred to the Tema Regional Police command as the children are being watched by child services.