Five women accused of human trafficking involving 14 children are being held at Monrovia Central Prison as they await trial, authorities confirmed.
The suspects, identified as Halimatu Daramy, Fanta Doe, Hawah Kamara, Henrietta Beaye, and Grace H. Sesay, were arrested by the Liberia Immigration Service at the Red Light market while allegedly attempting to leave the country with the children, aged between 11 months and 8 years.
During police interrogation, the women reportedly admitted they were en route to Burkina Faso to participate in a resettlement program run by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This came after a previous failed attempt to reach Mali earlier this year.
The suspects claimed the children were relatives and said they were bringing them along because they owed debts after returning to Liberia without assistance. However, authorities remain skeptical of their explanation, given the serious nature of the allegations.
Investigators say Halimatu Daramy, believed to be the group’s leader, persuaded the other women to embark on the risky journey.
Authorities also revealed that the group had received 50,000 Liberian dollars (approximately $250) from the Ministry of Gender and a local church to help them reintegrate into society after their return from Mali. Instead of using the funds as intended, police say the women disregarded the support and attempted to travel again with the children.
The case has drawn significant attention, with child protection advocates calling for a thorough investigation. Human trafficking remains a pressing issue in Liberia, and this incident has reignited discussions about the vulnerabilities of children in impoverished communities.
The suspects are expected to face court proceedings soon, where they will answer to the allegations. If convicted, they could face severe penalties under Liberia’s anti-human trafficking laws.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities are working to verify the identities of the children and reunite them with their families while ensuring their safety.
