KUALA LUMPUR – A total of 829 individuals believed to be human trafficking victims were rescued by police and given the interim protection order following 190 raids conducted nationwide from January last year to May this year.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Abd Jalil Hassan said of the total, 74 were given protection orders last year, while 65 obtained theirs in the first five months of this year.
“A total of 599 people were rescued as a result of 146 raids last year, while 230 people were rescued in 44 raids conducted from January to May this year.
“A total of 243 people were arrested on suspicion of being involved in human trafficking cases last year, while another 110 were detained this year.”
He said police are serious in their efforts to combat human trafficking, which has become a cross-border crime and global issue.
“Among the efforts are working with non-governmental organisations to disseminate information and create public awareness on human trafficking and smuggling of migrants.
“In addition, various programmes – including courses, in-service training, seminars and workshops – are conducted on a yearly basis, internally or via collaboration with other agencies or organisations.”
Jalil said the programmes are aimed at enhancing knowledge, skills and expertise among staff, especially enforcement agency personnel involved in combating the crime.
He said continuous efforts are being made by police to address the problem of human trafficking, especially forced labour.
“According to statistics, 62 raids in connection with labour exploitation were conducted last year, and 25 carried out up to May this year,” he said, adding that most of the victims are Indonesian, and Philippine and Indian nationals. – Bernama, July 19, 2021
