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In a recent develfopment, a renowned socialite from Edo State, Felicia Osaigbovo, known by her alias “Mama Masha,” has been handed a 12-year prison sentence along with a substantial fine of N24 million by a high court in Benin City. This ruling comes as a result of her involvement in human trafficking activities.
The conviction, presided over by Justice Geraldine Imadegbelo, stems from Felicia Osaigbovo’s role as a member of a human trafficking syndicate that engaged in the recruitment and trafficking of 12 Nigerian girls to Belgium for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) disclosed this development on October 3rd. According to their statement, not only was Felicia Osaigbovo found guilty, but 12 other collaborators, including three of her own children, have already faced convictions in Belgium in connection with the same case.
The legal proceedings against the convict commenced on July 1, 2021, involving a total of 24 charges. These charges encompassed facilitating the activities of individuals engaged in trafficking in persons and orchestrating foreign travels that promoted prostitution, thus violating the Tr@fficking in Persons Prohibition Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPEA) of 2015.
Felicia Osaigbovo pleaded not guilty to all 24 counts during the trial. The prosecution presented a strong case, featuring three witnesses, including a Belgian Chief Inspector of Police, and submitted 13 exhibits as evidence.
After a thorough and comprehensive trial, the court arrived at a verdict, finding Felicia Osaigbovo guilty on all 24 counts. Consequently, she has been sentenced to 12 years behind bars and ordered to pay a substantial fine of N24 million. This case serves as a stark reminder of the determination to combat human trafficking and bring its perpetrators to justice.
