Minister of National Security Dr. Horace Chang says ongoing training and sensitization for frontline workers is critical in helping them to readily identify cases of human trafficking.
Addressing the launch of the Trafficking in Persons’ Handbook at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices on Wednesday, Dr. Chang said the handbook forms part of the training and sensitization process for the individuals.
Trafficking in persons can be defined as the receipt, harbouring or transportation of a person through various means of threat, use of force, fraud or other deceptive means or even abduction for the exploitation of that person.
He said trafficking in persons is a heartless crime, noting that it is recognized globally as a major criminal activity and is the third largest income earner for criminal organizations behind drug trafficking and arms trading.
He said although the data suggests that the activity is not as extensive in Jamaica, persons need to remain vigilant so that the trade does not grow.
