AWKA, Nigeria – The Anambra State Government, through its Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade, has shut down a notorious brothel in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area.
The establishment, whose name has been withheld, was reportedly a hub for underaged sex workers, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities.
During the operation, the enforcement team rescued at least 10 individuals, including underaged girls allegedly exploited as sex workers.

The Managing Director of the OCHA Brigade, Celestine Anere, confirmed the raid in a statement on Thursday, January 16, 2025, describing the operation as a response to intelligence reports about the illicit activities taking place at the brothel.
“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 under-aged sex workers,” Anere said.
He added that the establishment also served as a hideout for armed robbers and other criminals, exacerbating the security challenges in the area.
Anere stated that the raid was part of a broader effort by the state government to curb illegal activities and ensure public safety.
“We have vowed to ensure that the operators of the facility are arrested and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others who might be running similar illegal activities in the state,” he said.
According to the office, the closure of the brothel highlights ongoing efforts by the Anambra State Government to address criminal activity and protect vulnerable individuals, particularly underaged girls, from exploitation.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the rescued individuals or potential charges against the operators, but investigations are reportedly ongoing.