Accra: Mr David Eklu, Executive Director of MISORNU Safety Centre, engaged with more than 20 young individuals who were rescued from an alleged job scam and human trafficking operation in Ho, Volta Region. The interaction took place at the Police Intelligence Directorate Headquarters in Accra, following the rescue of over 100 youths who were lured under false promises of employment by a company identified by victims as QNET.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Eklu, a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, explained that the MISORNU Safety Centre is a Ghanaian non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting a proactive 'safety-first mindset and culture,' especially among the youth. He emphasized that the organisation's mission is centered on prevention through education rather than assigning blame.
Mr Eklu highlighted the importance of making informed decisions by being aware, asking questions, and seeking advice from credible sources. He urged young people to verify job and travel offers through reliable channels before making financial commitments or embarking on journeys. Emphasizing personal safety, he advised them to ask critical questions, share plans with trusted family or community members, and seek guidance from recognized institutions when in doubt.
He encouraged the survivors to view their experiences as a learning opportunity and to educate their peers. He warned that silence, secrecy, and hasty decisions often render young individuals vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Over the past two weeks, the Police Intelligence Directorate of the Ghana Police Service has rescued more than 100 young people, aged between 20 and 35, from two separate locations in Ho.
The victims reported being enticed through social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok with promises of jobs, online learning opportunities in foreign universities, chances to join foreign football clubs, and products marketed as Chi Pendant and other QNET-related items. Some survivors revealed that they paid amounts ranging from GHS10,000 to GHS15,000, often without informing family or trusted contacts, before abruptly traveling to Ho.
Mr Eklu commended the officers of the Police Intelligence Directorate for their prompt intervention, describing their efforts as life-saving. He praised the professionalism with which the victims were handled, including the provision of care and coordination for their safe reunion with families. MISORNU Safety Centre seized the opportunity to advocate for increased public awareness of job scams, trafficking tactics, and everyday personal security, particularly as young people are increasingly targeted through digital platforms.