Awareness Campaign

The Ghana Police Service has expressed concern over the increasing use of sports as a cover for human trafficking, warning that young athletes are being targeted with false promises of professional opportunities abroad.The caution was issued by William Ayaregah, Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), during a media training session held on April 15, 2026, at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Head Office in Accra.The workshop brought together sports journalists and key stakeholders to improve awareness of trafficking risks within the sporting industry and strengthen the role of the media in prevention efforts.Mr. Ayaregah explained that traffickers often lure young athletes with promises of trials, contracts, and overseas exposure, which ultimately end in exploitation.“Human trafficking is a crime that strips people of their rights, ruins their dreams, and robs them of their dignity. Help stop this crime,” he said.He noted that many victims and their families commit significant financial resources in pursuit of these opportunities, driven by hopes of a better future through sport.In several cases, he said, victims arrive in foreign countries only to discover that the promised clubs or agents do not exist. Others have...

Leigh Nicol, former professional footballer with Crystal Palace, shared her harrowing story with us on Off The Ball after she had intimate images and videos shared and circulated online a number of years ago. Leigh joined Shane Hannon on the line for our panel to raise awareness of her experience, and also in studio were Kathrina Bentley, CEO of Men's Aid Ireland, and An Garda Síochána Detective Superintendent Ian Lackey. This Panel is with the Department of Justice – Sharing intimate images without consent is a crime. Visit hotline.ie to report quickly, easily and anonymously, or contact An Garda Síochána.