Benue Teenager Escapes Mali Sex Trafficker's Grip

A teenager from Benue State, whose identity is withheld, recounted her harrowing experience of being trafficked to Mali for commercial sex work. She was lured in March 2026 along with three other young women with promises of lucrative job opportunities abroad.

The journey began in Benue State, passing through Otukpo, Enugu, and Lagos, where they were instructed to disguise themselves as sachet water vendors. Upon arrival in Mali, the girls were separated and their phones and travel documents confiscated.

The teenager was forced to work under harsh conditions, enduring physical assaults and intimidation while being compelled to service a minimum of 20 clients daily. She eventually managed to escape after secretly contacting an acquaintance in Nigeria who assisted her.

Alexand Fanafa, the general manager of Benu Link Nigeria, facilitated her transport back home. The teenager warned others against the deceptive promises of easy wealth through overseas jobs, highlighting the dangers of human trafficking.