Benin appealed Monday for help from the United Nations and Western countries in the search for the Nigerian-registered ship, the MV Etireno. The boat was refused entry at two African ports after clandestinely leaving Cotonou, Benin's commercial capital, at least 10 days ago. It was believed to be carrying 100 to 250 children from Benin and other countries in the region. The vessel was originally turned away from Gabon, where authorities believe those behind the operation were planning to sell the children as unpaid domestic or plantation workers. On Thursday, it was also refused port in Douala, Cameroon, according to U.N. and Benin officials.
Girls often end up as domestic workers or prostitutes.