The Anambra State Government has shut down a notorious brothel in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area, in a decisive crackdown on crime and exploitation.
The brothel, known for harboring underage sex workers, drug peddlers, armed robbers, and other criminals, was raided by operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade.
During the operation, at least 10 women, including underage girls, were rescued, highlighting the grim reality of human exploitation within the state.
Speaking on Thursday, the Managing Director of the OCHA Brigade, Celestine Anere, revealed that the raid followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
“This operation was carried out after an intelligence report showed that their illegal activities had aided all kinds of crimes, ranging from drug trafficking to underage sex work,” Anere said.
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The brothel, whose name has been withheld, had become a hub for illicit activities, drawing criminals and perpetuating a cycle of exploitation.
Anere described the brothel as a “haven” for armed robbers and drug traffickers, noting that its operations posed a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the local community.
“This establishment had not only facilitated crimes but also exposed underage girls to exploitation,” he said. “The government will not tolerate such acts. We have vowed to ensure that the operators of this facility are arrested and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.”
The rescued women, particularly the underage victims, are now in the custody of the state government, which has pledged to provide them with the necessary support and rehabilitation.
“We are committed to restoring dignity to these young girls and ensuring they are safe from further harm,” Anere assured.
The government’s next steps include tracing and arresting those responsible for running the brothel and exploiting its victims.
“This is just the beginning,” Anere warned. “We will continue to go after those who profit from exploitation and crime. Anambra State will not be a safe haven for criminals.”