In a shocking revelation that has sparked widespread outrage, Australian Federal Police have arrested 56-year-old Binta Abubakar, a Nigerian-Australian woman, over her alleged role in a human trafficking ring involving 15 Papua New Guinean students. Authorities say the victims were lured into Australia under the guise of educational scholarships, only to be forced into unpaid farm work.
The arrest, which took place at Brisbane Airport, follows a painstaking two-year investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP). According to police statements, Abubakar operated through her private firm, BIN Educational Services, which she used to orchestrate a scheme that promised young, vulnerable students the opportunity of higher education in Australia.
Instead, investigators allege that once in the country, the students were subjected to exploitative labour conditions on Australian farms. Their passports were reportedly seized, wages withheld, and they were coerced into silence through intimidation and threats — a situation that authorities have likened to modern-day slavery.
Abubakar now faces 31 criminal charges, including human trafficking, debt bondage, and exploitation. If convicted, she could face lengthy imprisonment under Australia’s stringent anti-trafficking laws.
The AFP said the investigation relied heavily on cooperation between Australian border and immigration authorities and international law enforcement partners. "This case highlights the importance of cross-border collaboration in tackling human trafficking and modern slavery," an AFP spokesperson stated.
She has been granted bail and is scheduled to reappear in court on September 19.
The case has drawn condemnation from human rights advocates, who are calling for stronger oversight of educational visa programs and greater support for trafficking victims. Meanwhile, immigration and law enforcement agencies are reviewing the case to determine whether more victims may be involved or if accomplices assisted in the operation.
This incident adds to the growing concerns about the abuse of international student programs by criminal enterprises, especially those targeting young individuals from economically vulnerable nations.