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Transporters are suspected of human trafficking
Uwajeneza Donatha
Aug 20, 2024 - 07:21
The Ministry of Justice, the Rwanda Prosecution Service, and non-governmental organizations are pointing fingers at people in the transport business for being part of the human trafficking chain in Rwanda. They are urging these professionals to be cautious about whom they transport and to remember to ask for identification documents before the journey.
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As the world grapples with the issue of human trafficking, the non-governmental organization Delight Rwanda states that those in the profession of transporting people and goods are one of the weak links in the human trafficking chain. They often prioritize financial gain without considering the potential consequences.
Eddie Mwerekande, the deputy director of Delight Rwanda, says, "Car drivers and motorcyclists transport people in various ways, often focusing on the 5,000 Rwandan Francs they will earn that day. They forget that what they are doing could be a crime that could punish them. If they knew it was human trafficking, they would be cautious and play a role in preventing it."
Those in the transport profession argue that it is a difficult responsibility because when a customer approaches them, they provide the service without further scrutiny.
Mr Claude ZIMURINDA said "Unless you are working undercover, you are unlikely to have the opportunity to ask a customer who wants to buy children's potatoes where they are coming from or where they are going."
In interview with Isango Star Mr Jean Marie said "When someone comes to request a service, you dont ask for their identification because they are coming to you for service, and your main goal is to provide it."
The National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA) of Rwanda warns transport professionals to check their passengers' identification documents, as stated by Muhongerwa Agnes, the head of the department handling gender-based violence cases.
She said, "The law that punishes and prevents human trafficking, specifically Article 27, addresses the role of transporters. Whether it is a driver or someone transporting a person from one place to another, the law requires them to verify their passengers, check if they are traveling from one country to another, and ensure they have the necessary travel documents. We urge civil society and advocacy organizations to pay close attention to these individuals and make them aware that this activity constitutes human trafficking."
The Ministry of Justice, through Ingabire Joseline, the government representative in charge of international justice, says that various awareness campaigns are conducted to prevent this crime.
Writor: Donatha, Uwajeneza; Author: Vestine UMURERWA
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