A 20-year-old Burkinabe man has been arrested by Benin police officials on charges of human trafficking. The man was apprehended in Parakou, a city in the northern part of Benin, while attempting to sell a young boy.
Local reports indicate that the suspect tried to sell an eight-year-old boy to a traditional healer for 5 million CFA francs (approximately 8,500 USD).
The transaction was to take place at the AI Barika bus station, but the alleged buyer, the traditional healer, reported the incident to the authorities, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is expected to appear before a prosecutor soon.
The police have praised the traditional healer for his role in thwarting the trafficking attempt, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in combating human trafficking.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human trafficking in the region and the efforts of law enforcement to address and prevent such crimes.
Report by Adaze Omonuwa