World Day Against Trafficking In Persons
By Norbert Fidelis
Today marks the celebration of World Day Against Trafficking In Persons . It’s a day set aside by the United Nations , to sensitize and educate the world about trafficking in persons , the dangers associated with it , as well as how to avoid being a victim.
Trafficking in persons is the act of recruiting , transporting or harbouring of persons , by force , fraud , deceit ,abduction or otherwise , for the purpose of exploitation . The day was set up by the UN in 2013, to raise awareness about trafficking and to protect and promote the right of victims
This year’s s theme “Trapped Behind The Scam ” , highlights how trafficking is gradually shifting from sexual exploitation and child slavery , to internet , technological and AI driven exploitation , where victims are trafficked by force , deceit or coercion to carry out industrial scale financial fraud , by compelling them to participate in online scam operations. This form of exploitation is what is called ” Organized Crime ” , where the traffickers operate in a network accross countries , and the victims are transfered from one country or continent to another where they operate
According to statistics released by the United States Office On Drugs And Crime (UNODC) , 74 percent of traffickers operate within organized crime group in 2022 . 162 victims from various nationalities were trafficked to 128 different countries , and about 70 percent of them are men , with Africa taking the lead at 31 percent cross border trafficking .
Victims are always recruited through fake job opportunities in another country . When they eventually get there , they are trapped in illegal scam compound , where they are forced to perform cyber enabled fraud like , cryptocurrency and other online financial fraud , including romance scam . They are closely watched and subjected to threats and violence if they don’t comply . This leaves them trapped in fear with little opportunity to escape .
Most of the victims are usually teenagers and youths, who are deceived by greener pasture and job opportunities. They end up being slaves to their captors and are used to commit all sorts of internet and AI scam.
However , stakeholders have given some red flag tips , which may help in not becoming a victim. Some of this include , stay away if the offer is too good to be true , stay away if he / she is too caring and good , be weary of big and lofty promises in the city or abroad , ask questions and consult people and family members for advise .
As we celebrate another World day Against Trafficking In Persons , it is pertinent to call on nations around the world , to strengthen cooperation against organized crime and online fraud , by improving the security accross borders , to checkmate traffickers . Also, legal reforms should be made and implemented where necessary .
There should be more sensitization and awareness , especially at the grassroot level ,to educate and enlighten people on how traffickers operate and capture their victims , where they always go to , and who they always target
Again , govt should work hand in hand with organizations like , NGOs , NAPTIP , Journalist and others , in terms of data sharing and other information that will lead to the arrest of traffickers . Finally , the various security agencies should be well equiped with modern day technology and other equipments needed to fight trafficking . Victims should also be given a chance to speak out and make a clarion call against trafficking in persons
International Day Against Trafficking In Persons , is celebrated worldwide every July 31, and this year’s theme is “Trapped Behind The Scam “.
