Sri Lanka's government has called for unified action against human trafficking, highlighting the connection between trafficking victims and online fraud schemes as part of observances marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
Sri Lanka marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30 with renewed calls for comprehensive measures to combat the crime and safeguard vulnerable populations. Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), who serves as Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Chair of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing the issue.
This year's international campaign theme, "Trapped Behind the Scam," draws attention to a troubling trend in which trafficking victims are exploited in online scam operations and financial fraud schemes orchestrated by organised criminal groups. According to Thuyacontha, many individuals involved in such operations are themselves victims who have been manipulated, coerced, and forced into criminal activity through deception and threats.
The National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force outlined its commitment to preventing trafficking, protecting those affected, strengthening investigative and prosecution efforts, and supporting the reintegration of survivors into society. Thuyacontha stressed that effectively combating human trafficking requires participation from all segments of society, calling on the public to contribute to protecting human dignity, assisting survivors, and dismantling the criminal networks that profit from exploitation.
