30 Sex Workers Arrested In Ebonyi State

Over thirty suspected sex workers have been arrested in Ebonyi State following a raid at a hotel located in Abakakili, the state capital. They were arrested during an operation led by the state Commissioner for Capital City and Urban Planning, Richard Ugo Idike, in collaboration with the Commissioner for Internal Security, Etta Ude, security operatives and members of the ministry’s task force.

It was gathered that the team also recovered substances suspected to be hard drugs.

Idike expressed concern over alleged security threats linked to activities at the facility. He said it was mandatory for business premises to comply with relevant regulations governing their operations in the state.

He said, “We are concerned about activities that could pose security threats to residents. Every business operating within the capital city must comply with the law and must not be used for unlawful purposes.”

The commissioner said substances suspected to be hard drugs, including materials allegedly identified as Colos and Indian hemp, were recovered during the inspection. He said the discoveries had prompted further investigation by security agencies.

He affirmed the state government’s commitment to enforcing building regulations and ensuring that all structures in Abakaliki were constructed and operated in accordance with approved plans. He urged property owners and developers to obtain the necessary building approvals before commencing construction.

He thereafter ordered the indefinite sealing of the guest house pending further investigation and compliance with the ministry’s requirements. He directed the owner to report to the ministry to answer to the circumstances surrounding the facility and address the outstanding issues.

Speaking also, Ude warned that the government would not tolerate the use of any premises as a haven for criminal activities. He said Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration was committed to protecting residents and maintaining peace and order across the state.

Quoting him, “The government will not fold its arms and allow any facility to become a centre for criminal activities. We are determined to protect lives and property, and we urge residents to support security agencies with credible information.”