The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the European Union (EU), on Wednesday, 8 September 2021, handed over vital investigative equipment to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), to bolster human trafficking investigations. The event was held at the Counter Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigative Branch (C-TOC), downtown Kingston.

“Investigating trafficking in persons cases and having the necessary tools to enhance investigations are essential to an effective law enforcement response to Jamaica’s anti-trafficking efforts,” said Keisha Livermore, Head of the IOM Office in Jamaica. She added, “IOM and the EU are delighted to extend practical support to the work of the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) in the fight against trafficking in persons.”

In keeping with the mandate to fight the scourge of trafficking in persons, IOM, with funding from the EU, is implementing the Multi Country Border Security Project (MCBSP) in Jamaica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with the objective of raising awareness on this heinous crime, as well as providing support to anti-trafficking efforts in these countries.

During targeted discussions with the JCF, the IOM-EU team obtained information on the particular tools and gadgets that would enhance the JCF’s capacity to effectively investigate cases. The items procured include binoculars, camcorders, night vision goggles, key chain voice recorders, digital voice recorders, mini keychain video cameras, hidden camera glasses and flexible waterproof tripods.

“Human trafficking is oftentimes hidden in plain sight and criminal actors continue to find new and complex ways to deny citizens of their dignity and liberty. Citizen security is a top priority for the Government and the EU is pleased to be partnering with the IOM and JCF to bolster the country’s investigative resources, which we hope will translate into successful prosecutions,” said Fredrik Ekfeldt, Chargé d'affaires – Delegation of the European Union.

Assistant Commissioner of Police and Head of CTOC, Anthony McLaughlin, expressed gratitude to the IOM-EU team on behalf of the JCF. “We are very happy to receive these paraphernalia that will assist in the investigations and operations geared towards reducing trafficking in persons in Jamaica”, said ACP Mclaughlin.

Since 2003, the IOM has been working closely with the GOJ to prevent trafficking in persons as well as identify and assist victims of trafficking. At a broader level, there has been keen focus on pursuing criminal justice actions against perpetrators and facilitating national, regional and global partnerships among key stakeholders.