Human Services Ministry pledges support for teen trafficking victim

Acknowledging that human trafficking is a “complex” issue, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has reiterated that tackling Trafficking in Persons requires a multi-faceted approach.

The ministry made this statement following the conviction of a trafficker.

Asif Mohamed Abrahim was found guilty and sentenced to four years’ imprisonment on Monday after being convicted of trafficking a 15-year-old.

An additional one-month sentence was imposed for assault. The sentences will run concurrently.

The case was heard before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrates’ Court, where Abrahim was found guilty.

In a statement, the ministry said that the conviction underscores its commitment “to protecting vulnerable individuals and bringing perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.”

The ministry has also pledged to provide ongoing support to the survivor as she continues her journey of healing and recovery.

Providing details of the case, the ministry stated that the incident stemmed from 5 September 2024.

The victim, who was 15 at the time of the offence, was rescued by the ministry’s Counter-Trafficking in Persons (C-TIP) Unit on 18 January 2024.

A resident of Region Nine, the victim was transported to Abrahim’s residence in Vreed-en-Hoop, where she was held until the C-TIP Unit, acting on credible information, intervened and rescued her.

The ministry noted that its swift action prevented the victim from further exploitation while ensuring her safety and access to essential support services.

“The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security recognises that human trafficking is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach.

“The C-TIP Unit works tirelessly to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute offenders,” the ministry stated.