The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have arrested a woman linked to a serious human trafficking case operating between Queensland and Papua New Guinea. Allegations against Binta Abubakar suggest she deceived her victims with false promises of fully funded scholarships, only to coerce them into working as fruit pickers under harsh conditions, including living in shipping containers and even being transported in car boots.
Abubakar, who has been identified as the CEO of BIN Educational Services and Consulting, reportedly exploited at least fifteen individuals, some as young as 19, over the course of two years. She left Australia two years ago but was detained upon her return at Brisbane International Airport. The AFP claims that the victims, upon arrival in Australia, were forced to labour on farms to repay debts that they had not been informed of beforehand, putting in long hours of up to 70 per week while she allegedly siphoned off their earnings without the farmers’ knowledge.
Conditions for the victims were reportedly oppressive, with some living in car boots. The AFP stated that Abubakar’s operations involved luring Papua New Guinea nationals with the idea of education opportunities, only for them to face exploitation instead.
Facing 31 charges, Abubakar was presented in court yesterday and granted bail. If convicted, she could face up to 12 years in prison. Authorities believe there may be additional victims and are urging any individuals affected to come forward.