After months of uncertainty surrounding her disappearance, Joyce Mensah has finally come forward with a chilling account of alleged kidnapping, ritual captivity, and a narrow escape that has left many Ghanaians shocked.
Deceived by Trusted Family Member
In an emotional testimony, Joyce revealed that her ordeal began when her own uncle allegedly deceived her under the pretext of taking her for an AFA spiritual initiation — a process meant to guide individuals on their life path.
Instead, she claims she was trafficked across the border into Togo and handed over to a man she describes as a ritualist who performs sacrifices for clients seeking wealth and power.
“I was kidnapped. I was taken to an isolation for several weeks,” she recounted.
Weeks of Captivity and Psychological Torture
According to Joyce, she was moved between locations before being confined in a secured compound with a tall black gate and a locked metal enclosure.
She described a disturbing routine during her captivity, where she was given food that left her in prolonged states of sleep.
“When they bring me food to eat, I eat and sleep and sleep and sleep until the next day,” she said, adding that she lost significant weight during the period.
She also claimed to have witnessed other individuals, including Ghanaians, visiting the alleged ritualist for spiritual purposes, often carrying items believed to be linked to ritual activities.
Escape and Flight to Nogokpo Shrine
Joyce said she eventually managed to escape under circumstances she describes as divine intervention.
She fled back into Ghana and sought refuge at the Nogokpo shrine in the Volta Region, where she stayed for five weeks under the protection of the thunder deity, Torgbui Zakadza.
“While I was there, they sent motor riders after me. I knew they were looking for me. How I escaped from Nogokpo? Only God,” she revealed.
Journey to Safety in Accra
From Nogokpo, Joyce travelled to Accra, where she found shelter in a church. She credited an unnamed man of God for helping her secure safety and begin recovery.
Her account suggests that the alleged perpetrators actively searched for her even after her escape, raising further concerns about cross-border criminal networks.
Police Involvement and Failed Arrests
Joyce confirmed that authorities in Togo have been alerted and involved in the case. However, she claims the accused ritualist has evaded arrest on at least two occasions.
She says she currently possesses photographs of both the alleged perpetrator and her uncle.
Call for Legal Advice Sparks Debate
In a bold appeal to the public, Joyce asked whether she should release the suspect’s identity and location online to aid in their capture.
“I need legal advice. Should I post the location and photos of this perpetrator online to help with an immediate arrest, or should I leave it?” she questioned.
This has sparked intense debate, with many calling for swift justice, while others caution against potential legal and safety implications of publicly naming suspects without due process.
Why This Story Matters
This case highlights growing concerns about cross-border human trafficking, ritual-related crimes, and the vulnerabilities exploited through spiritual manipulation. It also raises critical legal questions about citizen involvement in exposing alleged criminals versus allowing law enforcement to handle investigations.
Joyce’s story serves as both a warning and a call to action for stronger regional security cooperation between Ghana and neighbouring countries.
A Spiritual Awakening
Despite the trauma, Joyce says the experience has transformed her life and deepened her faith.
“God knew that I was lost, but now I’m found,” she said. “If you never believed that God exists, today I want to tell you that He exists.”
Her story continues to generate widespread reactions online, as Ghanaians await further developments and possible legal action in the case.
