Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said the government is determined to take tough action against international human trafficking networks that use digital platforms and false online promises to lure victims.
He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the launch of Listen, a documentary-based photo book featuring the stories of rescued survivors of human trafficking, and the inauguration of a photo exhibition at the UN Building in Gulshan.
The event was organised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) as part of the observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
The minister said human trafficking not only robs individuals of their freedom and dignity but also weakens the very foundation of society.
He said the government is strengthening both law enforcement and technological capacity, alongside raising public awareness, to tackle technology-driven trafficking crimes.
"The true cost of human trafficking cannot be measured by statistics alone," Salahuddin said, adding that the real-life stories featured in “Listen” will help raise awareness and reinforce the country's commitment to combating the crime.
Referring to the theme of this year's World Day Against Trafficking in Persons ‘Trapped Behind the Scam”, he said organised international crime groups are increasingly forcing people across borders into cyber fraud, online scams and forced labour.
