Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions.

Citing overcrowded prisons, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government issued a decree in April allowing the release of foreign nationals convicted of people smuggling, on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours once freed.

The move drew a protest from neighbouring Austria, a top destination for smuggled migrants heading for the heart of the European Union via Hungary from the Balkans. Vienna said it regards the release of human traffickers as a security threat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-lawmakers-pass-new-law-allowing-locals-to-report-anonymously-on-same-sex-couples-582433">Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples</a>

The Hungarian prison directorate (BvOP) said there were 2,636 people convicted of human trafficking in Hungarian prisons, of whom 808 were foreign citizens eligible for the release.

"Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said in its emailed reply.

It said that if those released do not leave Hungary's territory within 72 hours and are caught by police, they would have to remain in prison for the full term of their sentence.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President?

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For many migrants, the Hungarian route remains an appealing one despite stepped-up border police patrols and a steel fence built by Hungary after the EU's 2015 migration crisis on its southern border with Serbia.

Once in Hungary, migrants can move across generally open borders within Europe's Schengen zone to wealthier western EU countries like Austria or Germany.

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Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions.

Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions. Citing overcrowded prisons, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government issued a decree in April allowing the release of foreign nationals convicted of people smuggling, on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours once freed. The move drew a protest from neighbouring Austria, a top destination for smuggled migrants heading for the heart of the European Union via Hungary from the Balkans. Vienna said it regards the release of human traffickers as a security threat. ALSO READ | Hungary: Lawmakers pass new law allowing locals to report anonymously on same-sex couples The Hungarian prison directorate (BvOP) said there were 2,636 people convicted of human trafficking in Hungarian prisons, of whom 808 were foreign citizens eligible for the release. "Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said in its emailed reply. It said that if those released do not leave Hungary's territory within 72 hours and are caught by police, they would have to remain in prison for the full term of their sentence. WATCH | Why is Hungary’s PM Viktor Orbán calling for Trump’s return as US President? × For many migrants, the Hungarian route remains an appealing one despite stepped-up border police patrols and a steel fence built by Hungary after the EU's 2015 migration crisis on its southern border with Serbia. Once in Hungary, migrants can move across generally open borders within Europe's Schengen zone to wealthier western EU countries like Austria or Germany. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hungary frees 777 foreigners convicted of human-trafficking

Hundreds of victims of human trafficking have gone missing after they were referred to UK government scheme designed to protect them, reported The Guardian. The news outlet said that it obtained the data under UK's Freedom of Information Act. The data says that 566 potential or confirmed victims of human trafficking, who were referred to National Referral Mechanism (NRM), were reported missing between 2020 to 2022.

The NRM is designed with the aim of providing support and safety to victims of human trafficking.

The data reportedly says that the maximum number of missing people were reported in the year 2022. The number was 258. In the year 2021, 232 people were reported missing. Seventy-six people were missing in the year 2020. Guardian reported that maximum number of children who were missing were Albanian boys, while a majority of the adults who were missing were Vietnamese.

“It is incredibly worrying that such significant numbers of victims are slipping through systems of support,” said Maya Esslemont, the director of After Exploitation, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

“This data shows a real risk of re-trafficking in the UK, even amongst people who report modern slavery and make steps towards recovery.”

“The role of control in modern slavery cannot be overstated, and many victims will fear repercussions from their traffickers for many months or years after exploitation as they are afraid of harm to themselves or loved ones if they do not remain in contact with their traffickers.”

“The government must urgently investigate these cases in order to understand what factors left survivors vulnerable to falling out of the process. It is vital that the NRM itself is fully funded and that every single survivor who needs safe housing, psychological and financial support to avoid re-trafficking is able to access it.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hundreds of victims of human trafficking have gone missing after they were referred to UK government scheme designed to protect them, reported The Guardian. The news outlet said that it obtained the data under UK's Freedom of Information Act.

Hundreds of victims of human trafficking have gone missing after they were referred to UK government scheme designed to protect them, reported The Guardian. The news outlet said that it obtained the data under UK's Freedom of Information Act. The data says that 566 potential or confirmed victims of human trafficking, who were referred to National Referral Mechanism (NRM), were reported missing between 2020 to 2022. The NRM is designed with the aim of providing support and safety to victims of human trafficking. The data reportedly says that the maximum number of missing people were reported in the year 2022. The number was 258. In the year 2021, 232 people were reported missing. Seventy-six people were missing in the year 2020. Guardian reported that maximum number of children who were missing were Albanian boys, while a majority of the adults who were missing were Vietnamese. “It is incredibly worrying that such significant numbers of victims are slipping through systems of support,” said Maya Esslemont, the director of After Exploitation, as quoted by The Guardian. “This data shows a real risk of re-trafficking in the UK, even amongst people who report modern slavery and make steps towards recovery.” “The role of control in modern slavery cannot be overstated, and many victims will fear repercussions from their traffickers for many months or years after exploitation as they are afraid of harm to themselves or loved ones if they do not remain in contact with their traffickers.” “The government must urgently investigate these cases in order to understand what factors left survivors vulnerable to falling out of the process. It is vital that the NRM itself is fully funded and that every single survivor who needs safe housing, psychological and financial support to avoid re-trafficking is able to access it.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK: Hundreds of trafficking victims reported missing after referral to govt scheme, says report

Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death&nbsp;of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia. According to the initial investigations, the truck was transporting 52 people who were hiding under wooden planks out of which 18 died due to suffocation.&nbsp;

The three arrests made on Saturday were in addition to the previous four detained suspects who are said to be Bulgarians, reported AFP. This incident may be one of the deadliest people smugglings in the country where there has been an uptick in the number of illegal border crossings. Reports suggest that the truck contained a group of Afghans who were coming from Turkey&nbsp;and were headed for western Europe as Bulgaria serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

An interior ministry spokesperson told AFP, “I can confirm seven people have been arrested”, while another official reportedly said that the suspected ringleader was among those arrested. The alleged ringleader has a previous record of&nbsp;similar charges and had&nbsp;received a suspended jail sentence of five months for smuggling people.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bulgarian-authorities-find-18-migrants-found-dead-in-truck-563187">Bulgarian authorities find 18 migrants dead in an abandoned truck 'illegally transporting' around 40 people</a>

On Friday, Bulgarian authorities said that 34 people, including five children, were rescued and rushed to the hospital. The country’s interior ministry also later reported that the truck was transporting timber and carrying illegal migrants hidden in compartments. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko, 12 km away from the capital city of Sofia.&nbsp;

The head of the National Investigative Service, Borislav Sarafov, told reporters yesterday, that the migrants had crossed the border with neighbouring Turkey&nbsp;and hid in the wood for two days before they were moved onto a truck near the city of Yambol in southeastern Bulgaria. Additionally, Health Minister Asen Medzhidiev had also said that there had been “a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.”&nbsp;

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Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia.

Bulgarian police have arrested seven people in connection with the death of 18 migrants, including a child, from Afghanistan, said officials on Saturday (February 18), a day after they were found in an abandoned truck outside the capital city of Sofia. According to the initial investigations, the truck was transporting 52 people who were hiding under wooden planks out of which 18 died due to suffocation. The three arrests made on Saturday were in addition to the previous four detained suspects who are said to be Bulgarians, reported AFP. This incident may be one of the deadliest people smugglings in the country where there has been an uptick in the number of illegal border crossings. Reports suggest that the truck contained a group of Afghans who were coming from Turkey and were headed for western Europe as Bulgaria serves as a gateway to the 27-nation bloc. An interior ministry spokesperson told AFP, “I can confirm seven people have been arrested”, while another official reportedly said that the suspected ringleader was among those arrested. The alleged ringleader has a previous record of similar charges and had received a suspended jail sentence of five months for smuggling people. ALSO READ | Bulgarian authorities find 18 migrants dead in an abandoned truck 'illegally transporting' around 40 people On Friday, Bulgarian authorities said that 34 people, including five children, were rescued and rushed to the hospital. The country’s interior ministry also later reported that the truck was transporting timber and carrying illegal migrants hidden in compartments. According to reports, the local residents alerted the police about the vehicle which was found abandoned near the village of Lokorsko, 12 km away from the capital city of Sofia. The head of the National Investigative Service, Borislav Sarafov, told reporters yesterday, that the migrants had crossed the border with neighbouring Turkey and hid in the wood for two days before they were moved onto a truck near the city of Yambol in southeastern Bulgaria. Additionally, Health Minister Asen Medzhidiev had also said that there had been “a lack of oxygen to those who were locked in this truck. They were freezing, wet, they have not eaten for several days.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bulgarian cops arrest seven for death of 18 Afghan migrants found in an abandoned truck

The UN said on Tuesday that there is mounting evidence that gang-based crime is taking advantage of an increasing number of displaced people as a result of climate-related disasters.&nbsp;According to a&nbsp;report published&nbsp;by the&nbsp;United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime&nbsp;(UNODC), the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is another risk factor for a rise in human trafficking.

"Climate change is increasing vulnerability to trafficking," the UNODC report said.

"While a systematic global analysis of the impact of climate change in trafficking in persons is missing, community level studies in different parts of the world point at climate-induced disasters as root causes for trafficking in persons," it said.

The analysis of 800 court cases and information gathered from 141 nations between 2017 and 2020 form the basis of the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-national-grid-offers-to-pay-customers-if-they-use-less-power-to-prevent-blackouts-amid-cold-snap-555157">UK: National Grid offers to pay customers if they use less power to prevent blackouts amid cold snap</a>

Based on the research, impoverished farming, fishing, and other groups that primarily depend on the extraction of natural resources for their livelihoods were "disproportionately" impacted by climate change.

People were turning into easy targets for traffickers after they were "deprived of their means of subsistence&nbsp;and forced to flee their community," the report's primary author Fabrizio Sarrica said at a press conference.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How effective is intermittent fasting?

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More than 23.7 million people were internally displaced by climate-related catastrophes in 2021 alone, and many more abandoned their nations entirely.

The Philippines and Bangladesh have seen a rise in cases of human trafficking, according to the UN drug agency, after severe storms and typhoons forced millions of people from their homes.

Many people were being forced to relocate due to droughts and floods in Ghana as well as the Caribbean area, which is vulnerable to storms and sea level rise.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The UN said on Tuesday that there is mounting evidence that gang-based crime is taking advantage of an increasing number of displaced people as a result of climate-related disasters.

The UN said on Tuesday that there is mounting evidence that gang-based crime is taking advantage of an increasing number of displaced people as a result of climate-related disasters. According to a report published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is another risk factor for a rise in human trafficking. "Climate change is increasing vulnerability to trafficking," the UNODC report said. "While a systematic global analysis of the impact of climate change in trafficking in persons is missing, community level studies in different parts of the world point at climate-induced disasters as root causes for trafficking in persons," it said. The analysis of 800 court cases and information gathered from 141 nations between 2017 and 2020 form the basis of the report. Also read | UK: National Grid offers to pay customers if they use less power to prevent blackouts amid cold snap Based on the research, impoverished farming, fishing, and other groups that primarily depend on the extraction of natural resources for their livelihoods were "disproportionately" impacted by climate change. People were turning into easy targets for traffickers after they were "deprived of their means of subsistence and forced to flee their community," the report's primary author Fabrizio Sarrica said at a press conference. Also watch | Gravitas: How effective is intermittent fasting? More than 23.7 million people were internally displaced by climate-related catastrophes in 2021 alone, and many more abandoned their nations entirely. The Philippines and Bangladesh have seen a rise in cases of human trafficking, according to the UN drug agency, after severe storms and typhoons forced millions of people from their homes. Many people were being forced to relocate due to droughts and floods in Ghana as well as the Caribbean area, which is vulnerable to storms and sea level rise. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Climate-related disasters become a cause of human trafficking: UN report

A Romanian court on Tuesday dismissed an appeal filed by controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate against his 30-day detention. The court noted that “the possibility of them [Tate and his associates] evading investigations cannot be ignored,” and that they could leave Romania to settle in countries that do not allow extradition.

A Romanian court on Tuesday dismissed an appeal filed by controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate against his 30-day detention. The court noted that “the possibility of them [Tate and his associates] evading investigations cannot be ignored,” and that they could leave Romania to settle in countries that do not allow extradition. Ramona Bolla, spokesperson of Romania's anti-organised crime agency DIICOT said the prosecutors were now looking to extend Tate's detention period to 180 days. Shortly after the court’s decision, Tate's lawyer Eugen Constantin Vidineac told reporters that there was no evidence to indict his client. "There is not a single piece of evidence to suggest that a crime of rape has been committed." However, according to the prosecutors, six potential victims have been identified so far. Read more: Controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate sent to detention centre for 30 days The 36-year-old former kickboxer alongside his younger brother Tristan and two Romanian women have been sentenced to 30-day detention following the arrest last month on charges of human trafficking, rape, and creating an organised crime syndicate. The authorities have since seized 15 luxury cars and more than 10 properties owned by Tate. The luxury cars became a focal point after Tate, a couple of days before the arrest started an online feud with Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. On December 27, Tate asked Thunberg to send her email address so that he could send a detailed list of his automobile collection and their respective massive emissions. However, Thunberg retorted sarcastically and tweeted, "Yes, please do enlighten me. Email me at Smalld***energy@getalife.com." yes, please do enlighten me. email me at smalldickenergy@getalife.com https://t.co/V8geeVvEvg — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) December 28, 2022 × WATCH | Gravitas: Social Media: a breeding ground for misogyny × Tate has gained a massive following in the social media echo chambers through his highly misogynistic and controversial statements. Such has been Tate's toxic influence that teachers in the United Kingdom are creating lesson plans to re-educate children who are “brainwashed” by him. Read more: UK schools developing special lessons to re-educate teens ‘brainwashed’ by Andrew Tate Some schools have even started holding special assemblies, or using personal social and health education lessons to encourage students to question the misogynistic content he puts out. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Romanian court rejects Andrew Tate's appeal to end 30-day detention

A British-American influencer has been arrested on charges of human trafficking. Andrew Tate had a following of millions who are endorsing his brand of toxic masculinity. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Social Media: a breeding ground for misogyny

The controversial social media influencer, Andrew Tate, was sent to a detention centre for 30 days by the Romanian court a day after he was arrested in connection with human trafficking, rape and forming an organised crime syndicate.&nbsp;The former professional kickboxer was arrested along with&nbsp;his brother and two other suspects on Thursday following a raid at their luxury villa in Bucharest.

On Friday, prosecutors sought to extend their detention, following which the court agreed. He was earlier detained for 24 hours.

Shortly after the court’s decision, Tate's lawyer Eugen Constantin Vidineac told reporters, "From our perspective, there are no grounds... for taking this most drastic preventive measure, but it is the judge's prerogative."

Romania's Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism issued a statement on Thursday night that Tate, his brother and others are suspected of being part of a human trafficking group.

The statement said six people who were allegedly "sexually exploited" by the "organised criminal group" have been identified.

<h2>Romania detains ex-boxer Andrew Tate over human trafficking case</h2>

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Without mentioning the Tate brothers, police claimed that the victims were "recruited" by British citizens, who they said had misrepresented their intention to enter into a relationship with the victims. The police called it "the loverboy method", reported BBC.

It was further alleged that the victims were forced to perform in pornographic content under threat of violence.

Tate, once a successful kickboxer, gained notoriety for misogynistic comments and hate speech. He has made statements blaming women for rape and claiming that they belong to men.

Though mostly shunned in major social media handles, Tate is active on TikTok and his Twitter account was restored once Elon Musk took over.

Most of his posts on TikTok pertains to promotional videos of his ultra-masculine, luxurious lifestyle, which garner massive online following, mostly young men.

He has often appeared in videos with expensive sports cars, on private jets and on exotic holidays.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The controversial social media influencer, Andrew Tate, was sent to a detention centre for 30 days by the Romanian court a day after he was arrested in connection with human trafficking, rape and forming an organised crime syndicate.

The controversial social media influencer, Andrew Tate, was sent to a detention centre for 30 days by the Romanian court a day after he was arrested in connection with human trafficking, rape and forming an organised crime syndicate. The former professional kickboxer was arrested along with his brother and two other suspects on Thursday following a raid at their luxury villa in Bucharest. On Friday, prosecutors sought to extend their detention, following which the court agreed. He was earlier detained for 24 hours. Shortly after the court’s decision, Tate's lawyer Eugen Constantin Vidineac told reporters, "From our perspective, there are no grounds... for taking this most drastic preventive measure, but it is the judge's prerogative." Romania's Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism issued a statement on Thursday night that Tate, his brother and others are suspected of being part of a human trafficking group. The statement said six people who were allegedly "sexually exploited" by the "organised criminal group" have been identified. Romania detains ex-boxer Andrew Tate over human trafficking case Without mentioning the Tate brothers, police claimed that the victims were "recruited" by British citizens, who they said had misrepresented their intention to enter into a relationship with the victims. The police called it "the loverboy method", reported BBC. It was further alleged that the victims were forced to perform in pornographic content under threat of violence. Tate, once a successful kickboxer, gained notoriety for misogynistic comments and hate speech. He has made statements blaming women for rape and claiming that they belong to men. Though mostly shunned in major social media handles, Tate is active on TikTok and his Twitter account was restored once Elon Musk took over. Most of his posts on TikTok pertains to promotional videos of his ultra-masculine, luxurious lifestyle, which garner massive online following, mostly young men. He has often appeared in videos with expensive sports cars, on private jets and on exotic holidays. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate sent to detention centre for 30 days

Controversial social media influencer and former kickboxer Andrew Tate was arrested along with his brother in Romania in a human trafficking case.

According to reports, Tate, 36, and his brother Tristan, 34, along with two other suspects, were arrested in Bucharest for allegedly abducting two girls.

They were under the lens of the Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) since April on the suspicion of forming an organised crime group which used girls in adult videos.

Tate, who is known for his sexist and misogynistic views, was seen being taken away from his luxury villa by police following a raid on Thursday.

"The four suspects... appear to have created an organised crime group with the purpose of recruiting, housing and exploiting women by forcing them to create pornographic content meant to be seen on specialised websites for a cost," prosecutors said, according to Sky News.

"They would have gained important sums of money."

According to the investigators, this organised criminal group allegedly sexually exploited six women and they have been identified.

<h2>Cuban exodus to US&nbsp;is the largest in the Island's history</h2>

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Tate is banned from various social media platforms for his misogynistic views and hate speech. But he still enjoys a massive fan following on TikTok.

A spokesperson for Tate told&nbsp;the Daily Mirror did not provide further details regarding the arrest. “However, Andrew and Tristan Tate have the utmost respect for the Romanian authorities and will always assist and help in any way they can.”

Earlier this week, he was involved in a spat with climate activist Greta Thunberg with Tate boasting of his supercar collection and asking for Thunberg's email address to "send a complete list of my car collection and their respective enormous emissions".

The climate activist hit back in a tweet saying, "Yes, please do enlighten me. Email me at smalld***energy@getalife.com."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Controversial social media influencer and former kickboxer Andrew Tate was arrested along with his brother in Romania in a human trafficking case. According to reports, Tate, 36, and his brother Tristan, 34, along with two other suspects, were arrested in Bucharest for allegedly abducting two girls.

Controversial social media influencer and former kickboxer Andrew Tate was arrested along with his brother in Romania in a human trafficking case. According to reports, Tate, 36, and his brother Tristan, 34, along with two other suspects, were arrested in Bucharest for allegedly abducting two girls. They were under the lens of the Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) since April on the suspicion of forming an organised crime group which used girls in adult videos. Tate, who is known for his sexist and misogynistic views, was seen being taken away from his luxury villa by police following a raid on Thursday. "The four suspects... appear to have created an organised crime group with the purpose of recruiting, housing and exploiting women by forcing them to create pornographic content meant to be seen on specialised websites for a cost," prosecutors said, according to Sky News. "They would have gained important sums of money." According to the investigators, this organised criminal group allegedly sexually exploited six women and they have been identified. Cuban exodus to US is the largest in the Island's history Tate is banned from various social media platforms for his misogynistic views and hate speech. But he still enjoys a massive fan following on TikTok. A spokesperson for Tate told the Daily Mirror did not provide further details regarding the arrest. “However, Andrew and Tristan Tate have the utmost respect for the Romanian authorities and will always assist and help in any way they can.” Earlier this week, he was involved in a spat with climate activist Greta Thunberg with Tate boasting of his supercar collection and asking for Thunberg's email address to "send a complete list of my car collection and their respective enormous emissions". The climate activist hit back in a tweet saying, "Yes, please do enlighten me. Email me at smalld***energy@getalife.com." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former kickboxer Andrew Tate arrested in Romania over human trafficking case

An investigative report about US bases in the Persian Gulf has alleged that foreigner workers - hired by contractors were victims of labour trafficking.

Gravitas: Human trafficking at US military bases?

The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states.

The Texas governor, considering most of them to be Venezuelan, dropped off the migrants outside of the Naval Observatory, the traditional residence of Kamala Harris, US Vice President. A similar group of migrants flew to Massachusetts, sent by the Florida governor.

With these transfers, Democratic politicians and immigrant activists demanded to look into possible human trafficking offences. The vice president accused the Republican elected leaders of playing games involving human lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-dont-dont-biden-warns-putin-to-not-use-nuclear-or-chemical-weapons-against-ukraine-517269">Also read |&nbsp;'Don't. Don't. Don't,' Biden warns Putin to not use nuclear or chemical weapons against Ukraine</a>

In conversation with Vice News, Harris said, "I think it is the height of irresponsibility much less, just frankly a dereliction of duty when you are an elected leader, to play those kinds of games with human life, and human beings, The Guardian reported.

Similar instances of sending migrants to other states and vice president's residences have occurred. Last week, Abbott, Texas's governor, sent three full buses to New York and also sent 100 migrants to Harris's residence on Thursday (Sept 15).

The two chartered planes sent to Massachusets by Florida's governor, including infants, prompted the island's residents to hustle to help with food and other necessities for this unexpected influx of people. Further, Florida's governor, DeSantis, stated that all American communities, not just those near the border with Mexico, should share the load, saying Biden's border strategy was a failure. Abbott also supported and claimed to have sent migrants to "sanctuary cities."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-approval-rating-sees-a-jump-ahead-of-november-midterms-517013">Also read |&nbsp;Biden's approval rating sees a jump ahead of November midterms</a>

On the other hand, the president criticised the Republicans for using people as political props and stated that what they are doing was completely wrong.

According to several immigration organizations, these transfers are misled about their intended destinations, making Republican governors essentially traffickers. Racheal Rollins, US attorney for Massachusetts, promised to look into the matter for possible human trafficking.&nbsp;

Since April, Texas has bussed nearly 8,000 people to Washington, including Harris's residence, with 300 bussed to Chicago and over 2,000 to New York. Arizona also bused over 1,500 migrants to Washington.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states.

The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states. The Texas governor, considering most of them to be Venezuelan, dropped off the migrants outside of the Naval Observatory, the traditional residence of Kamala Harris, US Vice President. A similar group of migrants flew to Massachusetts, sent by the Florida governor. With these transfers, Democratic politicians and immigrant activists demanded to look into possible human trafficking offences. The vice president accused the Republican elected leaders of playing games involving human lives. Also read | 'Don't. Don't. Don't,' Biden warns Putin to not use nuclear or chemical weapons against Ukraine In conversation with Vice News, Harris said, "I think it is the height of irresponsibility much less, just frankly a dereliction of duty when you are an elected leader, to play those kinds of games with human life, and human beings, The Guardian reported. Similar instances of sending migrants to other states and vice president's residences have occurred. Last week, Abbott, Texas's governor, sent three full buses to New York and also sent 100 migrants to Harris's residence on Thursday (Sept 15). The two chartered planes sent to Massachusets by Florida's governor, including infants, prompted the island's residents to hustle to help with food and other necessities for this unexpected influx of people. Further, Florida's governor, DeSantis, stated that all American communities, not just those near the border with Mexico, should share the load, saying Biden's border strategy was a failure. Abbott also supported and claimed to have sent migrants to "sanctuary cities." Also read | Biden's approval rating sees a jump ahead of November midterms On the other hand, the president criticised the Republicans for using people as political props and stated that what they are doing was completely wrong. According to several immigration organizations, these transfers are misled about their intended destinations, making Republican governors essentially traffickers. Racheal Rollins, US attorney for Massachusetts, promised to look into the matter for possible human trafficking. Since April, Texas has bussed nearly 8,000 people to Washington, including Harris's residence, with 300 bussed to Chicago and over 2,000 to New York. Arizona also bused over 1,500 migrants to Washington. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Republican-led states sends another group of migrants to VP Kamala Harris's residence & Massachusetts

Police across Europe have arrested abut 130 people suspected of involvement in human trafficking in a joint operation carried out by 22 countries.

Europe: Police arrest 130 suspected human traffickers in a massive joint operation

UK PM Boris Johnson has announced a controversial plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. PM Johnson has stressed that $157 million scheme has been taken into action to break people's smuggling network

Britain hardens its migration policy, plans to send migrants to Rwanda

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania.

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.&nbsp;

The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>

Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants.&nbsp;

In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident.

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🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів 
▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. 
▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію <a href="https://t.co/44Kmp2TsAl">pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl</a>
— Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) <a href="https://twitter.com/DPSU_ua/status/1503432061213986821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from.&nbsp;

Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter.&nbsp;The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force.

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a575c714-83fa-4726-ab95-67c5ec689d9b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2820%29_0.jpg" />

<img alt="Ukraine border force cares for rescued babies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9702a948-5ce2-4b6c-b973-0540ab554497" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/stories%20%2819%29_2.jpg" />

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jumping-the-gun-as-calls-for-its-expulsion-grow-russia-announces-ruxit-from-council-of-europe-462722" hreflang="en">Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit'&nbsp;from Council of Europe</a>

However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery.

According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour.

The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution.

“Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking."

Watch |&nbsp;Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/surrogacy-industry-in-ukraine-hit-by-war-citizenship-of-newborn-babies-unclear-462804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men."&nbsp;

"Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast.

Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for trying to smuggle undocumented children out of Ukraine and into Romania. Ukraine's State Border Guard Service reported on Monday that border guards held off foreigners from taking babies out of the country at the Porubne Border Crossing Point in Chernivtsi Oblast. The people who have been identified as Chinese nationals were carrying two infants as they attempted to cross the border and into Romania when they attracted suspicion from the border guards who suspected that something was off. Also read | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking Upon inspection, border officials discovered that the foreigners did not have any identification documents for the infants. In an investigation conducted by the State Border Guard Service, it was found that both Chinese had arrived in the country without children a few weeks before this incident. 🚫Прикордонники припинили спробу вивезення з України громадянами Китаю немовлят без документів ▪️У пункті пропуску «Порубне», що у Чернівецькій області, прикордонники припинили спробу іноземців вивезти немовлят. ▪️Двоє громадян Китаю намагалися пішки перейти з України в Румунію pic.twitter.com/44Kmp2TsAl — Держприкордонслужба (@DPSU_ua) March 14, 2022 × When border guards questioned the two men, they were unable to explain where the children came from. Now the Ukrainian National Police is looking into the matter. The Ukrainian government's website features pictures of the babies being looked after by its border force. Also read | Jumping the gun: As calls for its expulsion grow, Russia announces 'Ruxit' from Council of Europe However, it remains unclear what will become of the babies as the identities of their parents remain a mystery. According to a US Department of State report, many of the trafficked children in China are forced into labour. The report said: “China is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children who are subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically forced labour and forced prostitution. “Well-organised international criminal syndicates and local gangs play key roles in both internal and cross-border trafficking." Watch | Surrogacy industry in Ukraine hit by war, citizenship of newborn babies unclear "Women and girls from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and several countries in Africa experience forced labour in domestic service, forced concubinism leading to forced childbearing, and sex trafficking via forced and fraudulent marriage to Chinese men." "Traffickers target adults and children with developmental disabilities and children whose parents have left them with relatives to migrate to the cities—estimated at 6.4 million—and subject them to forced labour and forced begging." (With inputs from agencies)

Two Chinese nationals arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle infants from Ukraine

Pictures of a chained woman are going viral on Chinese social media. Public pressure has forced Beijing to make a u-turn and admit that the woman was trafficked. How serious is China's trafficking problem? How is the regime trying to cover it up? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: 'Chained woman' exposes China's trafficking problem

A family of four Indians, including a baby, froze to death as they were allegedly trying to cross the US-Canada border illegally in a sub-zero temperature.&nbsp;

As per a report by The Indian Express, the family is believed to be from a small village in the Gandhinagar region, which is in the eastern state of Gujarat. The report added that another seven people have been detained by US authorities.

It should be noted that there is no official statement on the identities of the people who died. Meanwhile, Gandhinagar District Collector Kuldeep Arya was quoted by the media outlet as saying: "This is an unfortunate incident which we got to know only through the media and there is no official communication yet."

"In case there is any communication from the MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), we will facilitate at our level," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-third-wave-of-coronavirus-peaked-in-india-find-several-answers-446836">Has third wave of coronavirus peaked in India? Find several answers</a>

Responding to the incident, India's Minister of External Affairs of India S Jaishankar on January 21 said, "Shocked by the report that 4 Indian nationals, including an infant have lost their lives at the Canada-US border. Have asked our Ambassadors in the US and Canada to urgently respond to the situation."

On the other hand, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Jan 21 said that his government is doing all it can to stop people-smuggling across the US border.

"It was an absolutely mind-blowing story. It's so tragic to see a family die like that, victims of human traffickers&nbsp;and of people who took advantage of their desire to build a better life," Trudeau told a news conference.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;US&nbsp;authorities have charged a US&nbsp;man with human trafficking after the incident was reported in the province of Manitoba, a few yards north of the frontier with Minnesota.&nbsp;

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An unfortunate and tragic incident. We are in touch with US authorities on their ongoing investigation. A consular team from <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainChicago?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiainChicago</a> is travelling today to Minnesota to coordinate and provide any assistance required <a href="https://t.co/syyA59EoB2">https://t.co/syyA59EoB2</a>
— Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) <a href="https://twitter.com/SandhuTaranjitS/status/1484554228081299456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A family of four Indians, including a baby, froze to death as they were allegedly trying to cross the US-Canada border illegally in a sub-zero temperature. As per a report by The Indian Express, the family is believed to be from a small village in the Gandhinagar region, which is in the eastern state of Gujarat.

A family of four Indians, including a baby, froze to death as they were allegedly trying to cross the US-Canada border illegally in a sub-zero temperature. As per a report by The Indian Express, the family is believed to be from a small village in the Gandhinagar region, which is in the eastern state of Gujarat. The report added that another seven people have been detained by US authorities. It should be noted that there is no official statement on the identities of the people who died. Meanwhile, Gandhinagar District Collector Kuldeep Arya was quoted by the media outlet as saying: "This is an unfortunate incident which we got to know only through the media and there is no official communication yet." "In case there is any communication from the MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), we will facilitate at our level," he added. ALSO READ | Has third wave of coronavirus peaked in India? Find several answers Responding to the incident, India's Minister of External Affairs of India S Jaishankar on January 21 said, "Shocked by the report that 4 Indian nationals, including an infant have lost their lives at the Canada-US border. Have asked our Ambassadors in the US and Canada to urgently respond to the situation." On the other hand, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Jan 21 said that his government is doing all it can to stop people-smuggling across the US border. "It was an absolutely mind-blowing story. It's so tragic to see a family die like that, victims of human traffickers and of people who took advantage of their desire to build a better life," Trudeau told a news conference. Meanwhile, US authorities have charged a US man with human trafficking after the incident was reported in the province of Manitoba, a few yards north of the frontier with Minnesota. An unfortunate and tragic incident. We are in touch with US authorities on their ongoing investigation. A consular team from @IndiainChicago is travelling today to Minnesota to coordinate and provide any assistance required https://t.co/syyA59EoB2 — Taranjit Singh Sandhu (@SandhuTaranjitS) January 21, 2022 ×

Indians killed in freezing temperature at US-Canada border reportedly from village in Gujarat

A family of four, including an infant, believed to be from India died due to exposure from extreme cold weather near the US-Canada border, officials said, indicating it to be a case of human trafficking.

Officials on Thursday said that the bodies of four people — two adults, a teen and an infant — were found on the Canadian side of the US/Canada border near Emerson on Wednesday.

Authorities believe it was a failed crossing attempt during the&nbsp;freezing blizzard.

The bodies were discovered amid vast snowdrifts on Wednesday, when the temperature was -35 degrees Celsius (-31 degrees Fahrenheit), accounting for the wind, officials said.

The US Department of Justice has said the four dead were “tentatively identified” as separated members of a group that had been detained earlier in the day while wandering in the snowy fields near the border.

On Thursday, US authorities said a Florida man identified as Steve Shand, 47, had been charged with&nbsp;human smuggling&nbsp;in connection with the group.

According to reports, a US border patrol in North Dakota stopped a passenger van carrying 15 people just south of the Canadian border on Wednesday.

It said that Shand was driving the van with two undocumented Indian nationals.

Around the same time, five other people – all undocumented Indian nationals – were spotted by law enforcement in the snow nearby.

The group said it had been walking for more than 11 hours outside in the freezing and disorienting conditions.

One of the men in the group was carrying a backpack that had baby supplies in it. He told officers it belonged to a family who had become separated from the group overnight, according to court documents.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police&nbsp;Assistant Commissioner Jane MacLatchy told a news conference in Winnipeg on Thursday that once the officials were notified that the family may still be in Manitoba, officers immediately began to search the area.

After a difficult search in nearly impossible terrain, she said the officers found three bodies together — a man, a woman and a baby — just 10 meters from the border near Emerson. The search continued and a teen boy was found a short distance away. It is believed they died from exposure.

“It is an absolute and heartbreaking tragedy,” MacLatchy said.

Meanwhile, India’s external affairs minister S Jaishankar expressed shock over the tragedy and asked India’s&nbsp;envoys to the US and Canada to respond to the situation.

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Shocked by the report that 4 Indian nationals, including an infant have lost their lives at the Canada-US border. Have asked our Ambassadors in the US and Canada to urgently respond to the situation.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1484510500226756614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Following this, India’s envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria said that he will work with the Canadian authorities to investigate the “disturbing events”.

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This is a grave tragedy. An Indian consular team is travelling today from <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainToronto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiainToronto</a> to Manitoba to coordinate and help. We will work with Canadian authorities to investigate these disturbing events. <a href="https://twitter.com/HCI_Ottawa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCI_Ottawa</a> <a href="https://t.co/qGM2ZTlPsx">https://t.co/qGM2ZTlPsx</a>
— Ajay Bisaria (@Ajaybis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ajaybis/status/1484536685027557378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

A family of four, including an infant, believed to be from India died due to exposure from extreme cold weather near the US-Canada border, officials said, indicating it to be a case of human trafficking.

A family of four, including an infant, believed to be from India died due to exposure from extreme cold weather near the US-Canada border, officials said, indicating it to be a case of human trafficking. Officials on Thursday said that the bodies of four people — two adults, a teen and an infant — were found on the Canadian side of the US/Canada border near Emerson on Wednesday. Authorities believe it was a failed crossing attempt during the freezing blizzard. The bodies were discovered amid vast snowdrifts on Wednesday, when the temperature was -35 degrees Celsius (-31 degrees Fahrenheit), accounting for the wind, officials said. The US Department of Justice has said the four dead were “tentatively identified” as separated members of a group that had been detained earlier in the day while wandering in the snowy fields near the border. On Thursday, US authorities said a Florida man identified as Steve Shand, 47, had been charged with human smuggling in connection with the group. According to reports, a US border patrol in North Dakota stopped a passenger van carrying 15 people just south of the Canadian border on Wednesday. It said that Shand was driving the van with two undocumented Indian nationals. Around the same time, five other people – all undocumented Indian nationals – were spotted by law enforcement in the snow nearby. The group said it had been walking for more than 11 hours outside in the freezing and disorienting conditions. One of the men in the group was carrying a backpack that had baby supplies in it. He told officers it belonged to a family who had become separated from the group overnight, according to court documents. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Assistant Commissioner Jane MacLatchy told a news conference in Winnipeg on Thursday that once the officials were notified that the family may still be in Manitoba, officers immediately began to search the area. After a difficult search in nearly impossible terrain, she said the officers found three bodies together — a man, a woman and a baby — just 10 meters from the border near Emerson. The search continued and a teen boy was found a short distance away. It is believed they died from exposure. “It is an absolute and heartbreaking tragedy,” MacLatchy said. Meanwhile, India’s external affairs minister S Jaishankar expressed shock over the tragedy and asked India’s envoys to the US and Canada to respond to the situation. Shocked by the report that 4 Indian nationals, including an infant have lost their lives at the Canada-US border. Have asked our Ambassadors in the US and Canada to urgently respond to the situation. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 21, 2022 × Following this, India’s envoy to Canada Ajay Bisaria said that he will work with the Canadian authorities to investigate the “disturbing events”. This is a grave tragedy. An Indian consular team is travelling today from @IndiainToronto to Manitoba to coordinate and help. We will work with Canadian authorities to investigate these disturbing events. @HCI_Ottawa https://t.co/qGM2ZTlPsx — Ajay Bisaria (@Ajaybis) January 21, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

4 Indians, including infant, die in freezing cold at US-Canada border, minister seeks probe

In an exclusive interview with WION, Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi hit out against the malicious “India out” campaign, saying that the perpetrators are just “social media bots” and “don’t represent the majority” of the island nation.

Didi, who is on a six-day visit to India to review the 'Passing Out Parade'&nbsp;of officer cadets at the Indian Naval Academy, was responding to a social media campaign in the Maldives called ‘#Indiaout’.

The campaign was critical of Maldives President’s Ibrahim Mohamed Solih administration’s ‘India first’ policy. They have in the past opposed to “any Indian military presence”, and the opening of an Indian consulate in its southern Addu atoll.

Speaking to WION’s Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Didi said, “These are just a handful of people and social media bots, trying to create a nuisance and propagating baseless rhetorics. They are people with vested interests and ulterior motives, who are uncomfortable with rules-based order and democracy, transparency, good governance and hate to see a corruption-free society because they themselves are so corrupt.”

The defence minister said that these “corrupt” people belong to the narco-trade network whose “spoils are being thwarted by the joint efforts of India and Maldives.”

“The surveillance and patrolling that have come as a result of cooperation (between India and Maldives) is understandably worrisome for the beneficiaries of narco trade, whose illicit spoils are being confiscated in unprecedently large quantities,” she added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONExclusive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONExclusive</a> | “Some social media bots are propagating baseless rhetoric. People with vested interests, ulterior motives are trying to destabilise ties between India &amp; Maldives”: Maldivian Defence Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/MariyaDidi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MariyaDidi</a> tells <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a>, while speaking about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaOut</a> campaign. <a href="https://t.co/f6dBhj5NrB">pic.twitter.com/f6dBhj5NrB</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1464655456631083012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Didi said that such propaganda won’t have any impact on India-Maldives ties

“The fact that I am reviewing the passing out parade is the testimony to the close relationship that exists between our two nations,” she added.

The minister also gave details about her meeting with Vice Admiral Anil Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, and divulged the purpose of her visit to India.

“Southern Command is the training epicentre of the Indian Navy. I met with Southern Naval Commander, Admiral Chawla and the faculty. I saw the standard, and the kind of training they offered. Indian Navy is the cradle of leadership…The purpose (of the visit) is to increase training (of Maldives forces) so that we achieve the objectives of President Soleh’s government&nbsp;which seeks to professionalise the forces.

Talking about the recently held “Four Pillars” security cooperation meeting between India, Sri Lanka and Maldives, Didi said the purpose of such meet was to improve coordination against terrorism and trafficking.

“It is the longest-running exercise in the region. We started with India and Maldives and then Colombo joined. We had observers from Bangladesh and Seychelles. The four pillars, as agreed in the Colombo conclave, aims is to get rid of terrorism, radicalisation, maritime safety and security, trafficking, cybersecurity,” she said.

India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives&nbsp;agreed&nbsp;to work together on the “four pillars” of security cooperation during a National Security Adviser-level meeting, virtually hosted by Sri Lanka in August.

The meetings are a part of the “Colombo Security Conclave” established by Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2011 as the erstwhile Secretary to the Ministry of Defence. It aims to strengthen maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi hit out against the malicious “India out” campaign, saying that the perpetrators are just “social media bots” and “don’t represent the majority” of the island nation.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi hit out against the malicious “India out” campaign, saying that the perpetrators are just “social media bots” and “don’t represent the majority” of the island nation. Didi, who is on a six-day visit to India to review the 'Passing Out Parade' of officer cadets at the Indian Naval Academy, was responding to a social media campaign in the Maldives called ‘#Indiaout’. The campaign was critical of Maldives President’s Ibrahim Mohamed Solih administration’s ‘India first’ policy. They have in the past opposed to “any Indian military presence”, and the opening of an Indian consulate in its southern Addu atoll. Speaking to WION’s Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Didi said, “These are just a handful of people and social media bots, trying to create a nuisance and propagating baseless rhetorics. They are people with vested interests and ulterior motives, who are uncomfortable with rules-based order and democracy, transparency, good governance and hate to see a corruption-free society because they themselves are so corrupt.” The defence minister said that these “corrupt” people belong to the narco-trade network whose “spoils are being thwarted by the joint efforts of India and Maldives.” “The surveillance and patrolling that have come as a result of cooperation (between India and Maldives) is understandably worrisome for the beneficiaries of narco trade, whose illicit spoils are being confiscated in unprecedently large quantities,” she added. #WIONExclusive | “Some social media bots are propagating baseless rhetoric. People with vested interests, ulterior motives are trying to destabilise ties between India & Maldives”: Maldivian Defence Minister @MariyaDidi tells @palkisu, while speaking about the #IndiaOut campaign. pic.twitter.com/f6dBhj5NrB — WION (@WIONews) November 27, 2021 × Didi said that such propaganda won’t have any impact on India-Maldives ties “The fact that I am reviewing the passing out parade is the testimony to the close relationship that exists between our two nations,” she added. The minister also gave details about her meeting with Vice Admiral Anil Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, and divulged the purpose of her visit to India. “Southern Command is the training epicentre of the Indian Navy. I met with Southern Naval Commander, Admiral Chawla and the faculty. I saw the standard, and the kind of training they offered. Indian Navy is the cradle of leadership…The purpose (of the visit) is to increase training (of Maldives forces) so that we achieve the objectives of President Soleh’s government which seeks to professionalise the forces. Talking about the recently held “Four Pillars” security cooperation meeting between India, Sri Lanka and Maldives, Didi said the purpose of such meet was to improve coordination against terrorism and trafficking. “It is the longest-running exercise in the region. We started with India and Maldives and then Colombo joined. We had observers from Bangladesh and Seychelles. The four pillars, as agreed in the Colombo conclave, aims is to get rid of terrorism, radicalisation, maritime safety and security, trafficking, cybersecurity,” she said. India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives agreed to work together on the “four pillars” of security cooperation during a National Security Adviser-level meeting, virtually hosted by Sri Lanka in August. The meetings are a part of the “Colombo Security Conclave” established by Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2011 as the erstwhile Secretary to the Ministry of Defence. It aims to strengthen maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.

Exclusive: Maldives hits out at malicious ‘India out’ campaign, says propaganda by 'corrupt people'

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers.&nbsp;The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija. He was earlier&nbsp;sanctioned by the United Nations for sinking migrant boats.

Milad is part of a criminal network which operates from Zwiyah in northwest Libya, The Guardian reported. In October 2020, he was arrested by authorities&nbsp;but was freed on Sunday after charges against him were dropped by the military attorney general of Tripoli, citing&nbsp;lack of evidence.

The UNSC had imposed sanctions against Bija and five others in June 2018 for their connections with criminal networks that specialise in trafficking migrants from Libya.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/libyas-interior-minister-survives-assassination-attempt-365292" hreflang="en">Libya's interior minister survives assassination attempt</a>

In 2019, an Italian newspaper called Avvenire had reported that Bija was present in Europe throughout the last few years at official meetings including Italy, Rome between 2017-2019.

Soon after the news of his release came in, criticism flowed in from many parts of the world, especially in Italy where two journalists were given police protection for reporting on the criminal’s activities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/over-1500-migrants-rescued-off-libya-coast-in-week-362857" hreflang="en">Over 1,500 migrants ‘rescued’ off Libya coast in week</a>

Many migrants hoping to flee wars and poverty cross through the country in hopes of reaching Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea.

The UN has referred to Bija as being directly involved in “sinking of migrant boats” was introduced at official meetings as a “Libyan coastguard”, the Italian newspaper reported.

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers. The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija.

Libyan authorities have reportedly released a man who has been commonly described as one of the world’s most wanted human traffickers. The man in question, Abd al-Rahman Milad is a coastguard commander who goes by the alias Bija. He was earlier sanctioned by the United Nations for sinking migrant boats. Milad is part of a criminal network which operates from Zwiyah in northwest Libya, The Guardian reported. In October 2020, he was arrested by authorities but was freed on Sunday after charges against him were dropped by the military attorney general of Tripoli, citing lack of evidence. The UNSC had imposed sanctions against Bija and five others in June 2018 for their connections with criminal networks that specialise in trafficking migrants from Libya. Also read: Libya's interior minister survives assassination attempt In 2019, an Italian newspaper called Avvenire had reported that Bija was present in Europe throughout the last few years at official meetings including Italy, Rome between 2017-2019. Soon after the news of his release came in, criticism flowed in from many parts of the world, especially in Italy where two journalists were given police protection for reporting on the criminal’s activities. Also read: Over 1,500 migrants ‘rescued’ off Libya coast in week Many migrants hoping to flee wars and poverty cross through the country in hopes of reaching Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The UN has referred to Bija as being directly involved in “sinking of migrant boats” was introduced at official meetings as a “Libyan coastguard”, the Italian newspaper reported.

One of the world's most wanted human traffickers released by Libya

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday recovered thirty-three missing children as part of an anti-human trafficking operation in California.

The bureau announced that the children were recovered during "Operation Lost Angels". Out of these 33, eight were being sexually exploited when found, the FBI said.

Two children were recovered more than once as part of this operation. The FBI said that many rescued victims end back in the circle of commercial sex trafficking many times voluntarily, and other times by force or fraud. 
 
"This harmful cycle highlights the challenges victims face and those faced by law enforcement when attempting to keep victims from returning to an abusive situation. Victims may not self-identify as being trafficked or may not even realize they're being trafficked," FBI's statement claimed. 
 
Many children who were recovered have been victims of sexual abuse and were considered missing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-emergency-trafficking-hotline-says-calls-spiked-under-lockdown-306245" hreflang="en">US emergency trafficking hotline says calls spiked under lockdown</a>

After uncovering the operation, a suspected trafficker faces state charges. The agency claimed that several other investigations have also opened.

The agency claimed that many victims were "arrested for probation violations, robbery, or other misdemeanours". The statement also claimed that one child was a victim of noncustodial parental kidnapping. 
 
According to the FBI, sex and labour trafficking-related crimes have increased over the past few years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/woman-hoped-to-sell-pelosis-stolen-laptop-to-russia-fbi-357565" hreflang="en">Woman hoped to sell Pelosi's stolen laptop to Russia: FBI</a>

Kristi Johnson, the assistant director at the Los Angeles FBI office said that the agency considers human trafficking "modern-day slavery", and that the minors who were involved in sex trafficking are considered victims. 
 
"While this operation surged resources over a limited period of time with great success, the FBI and our partners investigate child sex trafficking every day of the year and around the clock", Johnson said.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday recovered thirty-three missing children as part of an anti-human trafficking operation in California. The bureau announced that the children were recovered during "Operation Lost Angels".

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday recovered thirty-three missing children as part of an anti-human trafficking operation in California. The bureau announced that the children were recovered during "Operation Lost Angels". Out of these 33, eight were being sexually exploited when found, the FBI said. Two children were recovered more than once as part of this operation. The FBI said that many rescued victims end back in the circle of commercial sex trafficking many times voluntarily, and other times by force or fraud. "This harmful cycle highlights the challenges victims face and those faced by law enforcement when attempting to keep victims from returning to an abusive situation. Victims may not self-identify as being trafficked or may not even realize they're being trafficked," FBI's statement claimed. Many children who were recovered have been victims of sexual abuse and were considered missing. Also read: US emergency trafficking hotline says calls spiked under lockdown After uncovering the operation, a suspected trafficker faces state charges. The agency claimed that several other investigations have also opened. The agency claimed that many victims were "arrested for probation violations, robbery, or other misdemeanours". The statement also claimed that one child was a victim of noncustodial parental kidnapping. According to the FBI, sex and labour trafficking-related crimes have increased over the past few years. Also read: Woman hoped to sell Pelosi's stolen laptop to Russia: FBI Kristi Johnson, the assistant director at the Los Angeles FBI office said that the agency considers human trafficking "modern-day slavery", and that the minors who were involved in sex trafficking are considered victims. "While this operation surged resources over a limited period of time with great success, the FBI and our partners investigate child sex trafficking every day of the year and around the clock", Johnson said.

Trafficking operation busted in California, 33 children recovered

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her.

The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape.

"Once he hit me with a chair and almost killed me", another 31-year-old victim tells AFP, adding that the experience pushed her "to the brink of suicide".

Both women are housed in a shelter for trafficking victims in northeastern Romania and are awaiting the start of proceedings against the men who passed them around.

But their wait may be in vain, given the impunity that many perpetrators seem to enjoy in Romania.

On a national level, the number of alleged traffickers sent to court dropped from 400 in 2018 to 347 last year.

AFP gained access to hundreds of pages of judicial documents and interviewed victims, prosecutors and lawyers in different regions.

The drawbacks were apparent even in the high-profile "Tandarei" case, which spanned the UK and Romania.

In one of the largest child trafficking rings uncovered in Europe, more than 100 people were convicted in the UK over an operation in which dozens of minors were forced to beg and steal.

But in Romania all those charged were acquitted last year after an almost decade-long trial.

The Romanian judges complained about the investigation led by the anti-mafia prosecutors' department (DIICOT), saying a lot of it was "accusations based on hearsay", while leads on alleged bribes paid to local police were not followed up.

- 'Untouchable' suspects -

In its latest report about trafficking in Romania, the US State Department said "widespread complicity and the failure to incriminate officials hampered effective law enforcement".

"Trafficking networks have vast sums of money which often allows them to buy impunity," Silvia Tabusca, director of the Center for Human Rights and Migration, told AFP.

DIICOT prosecutors say that in some cases "officials from banks or town halls as well as police officers have offered protection" to trafficking rings.

Tabusca says there are sometimes also "suspicions of corruption" within the judicial system.

In a rare interview to AFP, 70-year-old Constantin Dragusin -- one of the accused ringleaders of the Tandarei gang -- admitted that "if we could have offered money (to judges) to be acquitted we would have done it, even though we're not guilty".

He says he decided against offering cash as he was convinced the judges in his case would act fairly.

"I am no mobster. I have neither stolen nor recruited any children," he said.

He says he repeatedly asked prosecutors to facilitate a meeting with the parents of the alleged victims, but this was turned down.

The deputy director of the local child protection agency, Neculai Badea, told AFP he also asked for access to the alleged victims in the Tandarei case -- but was likewise turned down.

According to Tabusca, the upshot of the Tandarei acquittals is that "the influence of the suspects within the local community has increased.

"They're are now perceived as untouchable," she says.

- 'Let them break their necks' -

Tabusca says victims' testimony is often changed or retracted during a trial.

"Physical or emotional abuse is normal for many of these children, who find it hard to realise that beyond the walls of their home there is another world where their rights are respected," Mariana Neacsu, a psychologist at the child protection agency in Ialomita county, told AFP.

In 2017, police in Romania and France arrested several dozen suspects believed to have exploited minors who were forced to steal on the Parisian subway.

In France, 20 members of this ring were jailed. But in Romania the case is still before the courts.

According to the prosecution indictment, more than 100 files had been opened by Romanian investigators into thefts committed by children of nine suspects in the ring.

But proceedings only began when French authorities asked for a joint investigation.

Spania and her husband Gheorghe are two of the nine suspects facing trial in the case in the north-eastern city of Iasi.

The indictment includes the transcript of a phone call intercepted by French police in which a friend warns Spania that her daughters, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested in Paris.

"I will not go look for them, let them break their necks", Spania is recorded as saying.

The couple deny the charges and their lawyer Ciprian Mitoseriu told AFP "there is reason to believe that the children stole on their own".

Prosecutors have interviewed 20 minors suspected of being trafficked by their parents, but none of them were prepared to testify.

For Tabusca, another failure of Romanian investigators is that they don't "follow the money and find the real beneficiary".

"The networks quickly regenerate, even if traffickers are convicted", she said.

In another suspected trafficking ring which crossed Romania's borders, the money generated was estimated at more than a million dollars.

The alleged head of that network was recently extradited to the United States, suspected of masterminding the smuggling of thousands of Romanians into the US and subsequently forcing them into begging.

He was previously tried in Romania along with six alleged accomplices and all were acquitted.

&nbsp;

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her. The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape.

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her. The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape. "Once he hit me with a chair and almost killed me", another 31-year-old victim tells AFP, adding that the experience pushed her "to the brink of suicide". Both women are housed in a shelter for trafficking victims in northeastern Romania and are awaiting the start of proceedings against the men who passed them around. But their wait may be in vain, given the impunity that many perpetrators seem to enjoy in Romania. On a national level, the number of alleged traffickers sent to court dropped from 400 in 2018 to 347 last year. AFP gained access to hundreds of pages of judicial documents and interviewed victims, prosecutors and lawyers in different regions. The drawbacks were apparent even in the high-profile "Tandarei" case, which spanned the UK and Romania. In one of the largest child trafficking rings uncovered in Europe, more than 100 people were convicted in the UK over an operation in which dozens of minors were forced to beg and steal. But in Romania all those charged were acquitted last year after an almost decade-long trial. The Romanian judges complained about the investigation led by the anti-mafia prosecutors' department (DIICOT), saying a lot of it was "accusations based on hearsay", while leads on alleged bribes paid to local police were not followed up. - 'Untouchable' suspects - In its latest report about trafficking in Romania, the US State Department said "widespread complicity and the failure to incriminate officials hampered effective law enforcement". "Trafficking networks have vast sums of money which often allows them to buy impunity," Silvia Tabusca, director of the Center for Human Rights and Migration, told AFP. DIICOT prosecutors say that in some cases "officials from banks or town halls as well as police officers have offered protection" to trafficking rings. Tabusca says there are sometimes also "suspicions of corruption" within the judicial system. In a rare interview to AFP, 70-year-old Constantin Dragusin -- one of the accused ringleaders of the Tandarei gang -- admitted that "if we could have offered money (to judges) to be acquitted we would have done it, even though we're not guilty". He says he decided against offering cash as he was convinced the judges in his case would act fairly. "I am no mobster. I have neither stolen nor recruited any children," he said. He says he repeatedly asked prosecutors to facilitate a meeting with the parents of the alleged victims, but this was turned down. The deputy director of the local child protection agency, Neculai Badea, told AFP he also asked for access to the alleged victims in the Tandarei case -- but was likewise turned down. According to Tabusca, the upshot of the Tandarei acquittals is that "the influence of the suspects within the local community has increased. "They're are now perceived as untouchable," she says. - 'Let them break their necks' - Tabusca says victims' testimony is often changed or retracted during a trial. "Physical or emotional abuse is normal for many of these children, who find it hard to realise that beyond the walls of their home there is another world where their rights are respected," Mariana Neacsu, a psychologist at the child protection agency in Ialomita county, told AFP. In 2017, police in Romania and France arrested several dozen suspects believed to have exploited minors who were forced to steal on the Parisian subway. In France, 20 members of this ring were jailed. But in Romania the case is still before the courts. According to the prosecution indictment, more than 100 files had been opened by Romanian investigators into thefts committed by children of nine suspects in the ring. But proceedings only began when French authorities asked for a joint investigation. Spania and her husband Gheorghe are two of the nine suspects facing trial in the case in the north-eastern city of Iasi. The indictment includes the transcript of a phone call intercepted by French police in which a friend warns Spania that her daughters, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested in Paris. "I will not go look for them, let them break their necks", Spania is recorded as saying. The couple deny the charges and their lawyer Ciprian Mitoseriu told AFP "there is reason to believe that the children stole on their own". Prosecutors have interviewed 20 minors suspected of being trafficked by their parents, but none of them were prepared to testify. For Tabusca, another failure of Romanian investigators is that they don't "follow the money and find the real beneficiary". "The networks quickly regenerate, even if traffickers are convicted", she said. In another suspected trafficking ring which crossed Romania's borders, the money generated was estimated at more than a million dollars. The alleged head of that network was recently extradited to the United States, suspected of masterminding the smuggling of thousands of Romanians into the US and subsequently forcing them into begging. He was previously tried in Romania along with six alleged accomplices and all were acquitted.

Impunity robs Romania trafficking victims of justice

British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry."

The parents of Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in Portugal in 2007 aged just three, said on Thursday that the announcement of a new suspect was a potentially very significant development in the 13-year worldwide hunt for their daughter.

McCann disappeared from her bedroom on May 3 during a family holiday in the Algarve while her parents were dining with friends nearby in the resort of Praia da Luz.

British and German police appealed on Wednesday for information about a German child sex offender currently imprisoned in Germany. He was 30 at the time of McCann's disappearance.

"Whatever the outcome of this particular line of investigation maybe, they do need to know what happened to their daughter to find peace and to bring whoever is responsible to justice," Clarence Mitchell, a spokesman for the family, told BBC radio.

Police want to speak to anyone who has relevant information on a 43-year old man, whom they did not name, or the movements of two vehicles linked to him during the period around the girl's disappearance. Both cars, a Volkswagen camper van and a Jaguar, are now in the possession of German police.

The suspect, German police said, lived in the Algarve between 1995 and 2007 -- and for several years in a house near Praia da Luz -- and burgled hotels and holiday flats as well as trading drugs.

German police said the man has been "sentenced on numerous occasions to prison terms for sexual abuse of children in the past."

They&nbsp;were treating the case as a suspected murder and had determined the method used to kill McCann. They did not believe the murder was pre-meditated and said the man was involved in crimes like break-ins and burglary.

UK authorities are offering a £20,000 (about $25,000) reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible.

(with inputs)

British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry.

British and German authorities have been investigating a new suspect in connection with the disappearance of a child, 13 years ago. UK authorities on Wednesday described the development as a "significant new line of enquiry." The parents of Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in Portugal in 2007 aged just three, said on Thursday that the announcement of a new suspect was a potentially very significant development in the 13-year worldwide hunt for their daughter. McCann disappeared from her bedroom on May 3 during a family holiday in the Algarve while her parents were dining with friends nearby in the resort of Praia da Luz. British and German police appealed on Wednesday for information about a German child sex offender currently imprisoned in Germany. He was 30 at the time of McCann's disappearance. "Whatever the outcome of this particular line of investigation maybe, they do need to know what happened to their daughter to find peace and to bring whoever is responsible to justice," Clarence Mitchell, a spokesman for the family, told BBC radio. Police want to speak to anyone who has relevant information on a 43-year old man, whom they did not name, or the movements of two vehicles linked to him during the period around the girl's disappearance. Both cars, a Volkswagen camper van and a Jaguar, are now in the possession of German police. The suspect, German police said, lived in the Algarve between 1995 and 2007 -- and for several years in a house near Praia da Luz -- and burgled hotels and holiday flats as well as trading drugs. German police said the man has been "sentenced on numerous occasions to prison terms for sexual abuse of children in the past." They were treating the case as a suspected murder and had determined the method used to kill McCann. They did not believe the murder was pre-meditated and said the man was involved in crimes like break-ins and burglary. UK authorities are offering a £20,000 (about $25,000) reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible. (with inputs)

New suspect identified in 2007 case of disappearance of Madeleine McCann

After Ukraine, Pakistani diplomats have been caught in the tight spot again and this time in Africa. A local report in Zimbabwe has said that a Pakistani diplomat in the country has been involved in human trafficking.

"The Standard" of Zimbabwe reported that one Pakistan origin businessman Main Sohail Qaiser "tipped off the immigration officers that (3 Pakistanis)... intended to cross the border illegally with the alleged help of Waqas Ahmed, a Pakistani diplomat based in Harare, who is, however, still employed by the embassy."

Three Pakistanis were arrested on October 2019 sparking tensions between Harare and Islamabad with all 3 being tried in a court and being sentenced to 90 days in prison. &nbsp;What has caused the alarm for the Pakistani mission was that Qaiser had interviewed the detainees in the presence of immigration officials and the interview the women had criticised Pakistan govt as a "facilitator of human trafficking" according to the report. The videos later got circulated in the country and local south Asian community causing embarrassment for the mission.&nbsp;

The Pakistan mission had taken the matter with Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs ministry. In a letter as quoted by the newspaper, the Pakistani mission had said, "It is astonishing to note Mian Sohail Qaiser’s access to official and confidential documents in the highly sensitive institution like immigration and (the) foreign office (sic).”

The mission had sent several diplomatic notes between November 2019 and May 2020 requesting a meeting with Zimbabwe's Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga and Foreign Affairs minister Sibusiso Moyo. 
 
Meanwhile, Qaiser has accused the Pakistani mission in running a human trafficking cartel and claimed the 2 women were to travel to neighbouring Malawi from Zimbabwe and were later supposed to be "smuggled into South Africa with the help of Pakistani missions in both Malawi and Zimbabwe"

“They are criminals and they are engaged with the videos because I exposed to their country what they are doing here in Zimbabwe,” Qaiser said according to the newspaper.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, a Pakistani foreign service officer, Waqar Ahmad posted in Pakistani mission in Ukraine was sacked by the govt in Islamabad over sexual harassment charges. He was involved in harassment of a local cleaner and involved in "abuse of authority", a Pakistani govt notification said.

After Ukraine, Pakistani diplomats have been caught in the tight spot again and this time in Africa. A local report in Zimbabwe has said that a Pakistani diplomat in the country has been involved in human trafficking.

After Ukraine, Pakistani diplomats have been caught in the tight spot again and this time in Africa. A local report in Zimbabwe has said that a Pakistani diplomat in the country has been involved in human trafficking. "The Standard" of Zimbabwe reported that one Pakistan origin businessman Main Sohail Qaiser "tipped off the immigration officers that (3 Pakistanis)... intended to cross the border illegally with the alleged help of Waqas Ahmed, a Pakistani diplomat based in Harare, who is, however, still employed by the embassy." Three Pakistanis were arrested on October 2019 sparking tensions between Harare and Islamabad with all 3 being tried in a court and being sentenced to 90 days in prison. What has caused the alarm for the Pakistani mission was that Qaiser had interviewed the detainees in the presence of immigration officials and the interview the women had criticised Pakistan govt as a "facilitator of human trafficking" according to the report. The videos later got circulated in the country and local south Asian community causing embarrassment for the mission. The Pakistan mission had taken the matter with Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs ministry. In a letter as quoted by the newspaper, the Pakistani mission had said, "It is astonishing to note Mian Sohail Qaiser’s access to official and confidential documents in the highly sensitive institution like immigration and (the) foreign office (sic).” The mission had sent several diplomatic notes between November 2019 and May 2020 requesting a meeting with Zimbabwe's Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga and Foreign Affairs minister Sibusiso Moyo. Meanwhile, Qaiser has accused the Pakistani mission in running a human trafficking cartel and claimed the 2 women were to travel to neighbouring Malawi from Zimbabwe and were later supposed to be "smuggled into South Africa with the help of Pakistani missions in both Malawi and Zimbabwe" “They are criminals and they are engaged with the videos because I exposed to their country what they are doing here in Zimbabwe,” Qaiser said according to the newspaper. Earlier this month, a Pakistani foreign service officer, Waqar Ahmad posted in Pakistani mission in Ukraine was sacked by the govt in Islamabad over sexual harassment charges. He was involved in harassment of a local cleaner and involved in "abuse of authority", a Pakistani govt notification said.

After Ukraine, Pakistani diplomat in Zimbabwe embarrasses Islamabad as human trafficking link surfaces

Human trafficking and the abduction of babies have been a problem in China for decades now. Children are abducted and sold to others for money. Watch this report of everlasting love and a tireless quest of a mother to reunite with her son.

A mother's quest to find her child | China | Man reunites with parents

In this segment of WION, we bring to you a story of a Yazidi woman, a survivor of human trafficking. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Yazidi woman reunites with family in Iraq

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-discover-coronavirus-mutation-that-can-make-it-more-infectious-297160" hreflang="en">Scientists discover coronavirus mutation that can make it more 'infectious'</a>&nbsp;

According to the latest UNODC analysis, some of the trafficking victims are stuck and are unable to go home due to sealed borders. These victims also risk catching the virus. Some of them are facing delays in legal proceedings, further abuse or neglect by the captors.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-professors-murder-in-us-fuels-conspiracy-theories-297153" hreflang="en">Chinese professor's murder in US fuels conspiracy theories</a>

More children are being forced on streets as schools have shut their provision of shelter and nourishment, forcing them onto streets to find food and income.&nbsp;

UNODC also issued a warning against traffickers saying that they “may become more active and prey on people who are even more vulnerable than before because they have lost their source of income due to measures to control the virus.”

“With COVID-19 restricting movement, diverting law enforcement resources, and reducing social and public services, human trafficking victims have even less chance of escape and finding help,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly.

Waly has urged countries to provide shelters and open hotlines and enable anti-trafficking units to continue doing their operations.&nbsp;

Coronavirus chaos has led to a steep rise in gender-based domestic violence, Waly said.

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday.

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday. Also read: Scientists discover coronavirus mutation that can make it more 'infectious' According to the latest UNODC analysis, some of the trafficking victims are stuck and are unable to go home due to sealed borders. These victims also risk catching the virus. Some of them are facing delays in legal proceedings, further abuse or neglect by the captors. Also read: Chinese professor's murder in US fuels conspiracy theories More children are being forced on streets as schools have shut their provision of shelter and nourishment, forcing them onto streets to find food and income. UNODC also issued a warning against traffickers saying that they “may become more active and prey on people who are even more vulnerable than before because they have lost their source of income due to measures to control the virus.” “With COVID-19 restricting movement, diverting law enforcement resources, and reducing social and public services, human trafficking victims have even less chance of escape and finding help,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. Waly has urged countries to provide shelters and open hotlines and enable anti-trafficking units to continue doing their operations. Coronavirus chaos has led to a steep rise in gender-based domestic violence, Waly said.

United Nations warns of increased risks for trafficking victims due to pandemic

64 corpses have been found in a shipping container in the back of a lorry in Mozambique today.

The vehicle had allegedly arrived from Malawi. All the dead are suspected to be Ethiopian, and had died of suffocation, many media reports indicated.

There were also 14 survivors on-board, who were reportedly banging against the container walls, pleading for help.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/remains-of-united-kingdom-lorry-victims-arrive-in-vietnam-264751" hreflang="en">Remains of United Kingdom lorry victims arrive in Vietnam</a>

The route on which the vehicle was found is notoriously famous for trafficking people down into South Africa.

According to Tete provincial director of health, Carla Mosse, the immigration service had halted the lorry in the African town of Moatize, the BBC reported.

Even though a thorough investigation will be conducted to understand what happened to the victims, suffocation is the most likely scenario.

As reported by many media outlets, the driver was hesitant to stop the vehicle. This sentiment was echoed by Amelia Direito, a spokesperson for the National Migration Service in Tete.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/migrants-found-alive-in-refrigerated-lorry-on-dutch-uk-ferry-263266" hreflang="en">Migrants found alive in refrigerated lorry on Dutch-UK ferry</a>

Direito had heard noises coming from inside of the lorry, which raised suspicion. After this, the lorry was stopped and inspected.

According to the information received by a Portuguese newspaper called Observador, the survivors were banging the container and screaming for help when they were found by authorities.

In October 2019, 39 bodies were discovered in a lorry in the United Kingdom. Police in the UK had claimed that the bodies found in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-police-step-up-appeals-over-migrant-lorry-deaths-259320">refrigerated truck</a> in Essex were from Vietnam.

The Essex police worked with Vietnamese police officials to verify the identity of&nbsp; 39 people discovered at Grays in Essex on October 23. The lorry trailer was travelling from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Grays, Essex.

The victims included eight women and 31 men.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/39-bodies-found-in-lorry-in-essex-were-vietnam-nationals-uk-police-260616" hreflang="en">39 bodies found in lorry in Essex were Vietnam nationals: UK Police</a>

64 corpses have been found in a shipping container in the back of a lorry in Mozambique today. The vehicle had allegedly arrived from Malawi. All the dead are suspected to be Ethiopian, and had died of suffocation, many media reports indicated.

64 corpses have been found in a shipping container in the back of a lorry in Mozambique today. The vehicle had allegedly arrived from Malawi. All the dead are suspected to be Ethiopian, and had died of suffocation, many media reports indicated. There were also 14 survivors on-board, who were reportedly banging against the container walls, pleading for help. Also read: Remains of United Kingdom lorry victims arrive in Vietnam The route on which the vehicle was found is notoriously famous for trafficking people down into South Africa. According to Tete provincial director of health, Carla Mosse, the immigration service had halted the lorry in the African town of Moatize, the BBC reported. Even though a thorough investigation will be conducted to understand what happened to the victims, suffocation is the most likely scenario. As reported by many media outlets, the driver was hesitant to stop the vehicle. This sentiment was echoed by Amelia Direito, a spokesperson for the National Migration Service in Tete. Also read: Migrants found alive in refrigerated lorry on Dutch-UK ferry Direito had heard noises coming from inside of the lorry, which raised suspicion. After this, the lorry was stopped and inspected. According to the information received by a Portuguese newspaper called Observador, the survivors were banging the container and screaming for help when they were found by authorities. In October 2019, 39 bodies were discovered in a lorry in the United Kingdom. Police in the UK had claimed that the bodies found in a refrigerated truck in Essex were from Vietnam. The Essex police worked with Vietnamese police officials to verify the identity of 39 people discovered at Grays in Essex on October 23. The lorry trailer was travelling from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Grays, Essex. The victims included eight women and 31 men. Also read: 39 bodies found in lorry in Essex were Vietnam nationals: UK Police

64 corpses found in a lorry in Mozambique, 14 survivors also retrieved

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Myanmar on enhancing bilateral cooperation between each other for prevention of trafficking in persons. 
 
The agreement will also strengthen the friendship between the two Asian countries and to increase bilateral cooperation on the issues of prevention, rescue, recovery and repatriation related to human trafficking. 
 
It will strengthen cooperation to prevent all forms of human trafficking ensure a speedy investigation and prosecution of traffickers and organised crime syndicates in either country. 
 
The agreement will further strengthen immigration and border controls cooperation and implementation of strategies with relevant ministries and organisations to prevent trafficking in persons. 
 
It will also set up working groups and a task force to make efforts to prevent human trafficking and organise capacity building programmes for the agencies concerned of both countries. 
 
Human Trafficking has national as well as international ramifications. The complex nature of human trafficking calls for a multidimensional strategy in tackling it at the domestic, regional and international level. Being global in scope, international cooperation and collaboration are essential to check human trafficking. 
 
Strengthening cooperation between border control agencies and the establishment of direct channels of communication between India and Myanmar can be an effective tool in countering trafficking in persons and promoting cross-border and regional cooperation, the statement said.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Myanmar on enhancing bilateral cooperation between each other for prevention of trafficking in persons.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Myanmar on enhancing bilateral cooperation between each other for prevention of trafficking in persons. The agreement will also strengthen the friendship between the two Asian countries and to increase bilateral cooperation on the issues of prevention, rescue, recovery and repatriation related to human trafficking. It will strengthen cooperation to prevent all forms of human trafficking ensure a speedy investigation and prosecution of traffickers and organised crime syndicates in either country. The agreement will further strengthen immigration and border controls cooperation and implementation of strategies with relevant ministries and organisations to prevent trafficking in persons. It will also set up working groups and a task force to make efforts to prevent human trafficking and organise capacity building programmes for the agencies concerned of both countries. Human Trafficking has national as well as international ramifications. The complex nature of human trafficking calls for a multidimensional strategy in tackling it at the domestic, regional and international level. Being global in scope, international cooperation and collaboration are essential to check human trafficking. Strengthening cooperation between border control agencies and the establishment of direct channels of communication between India and Myanmar can be an effective tool in countering trafficking in persons and promoting cross-border and regional cooperation, the statement said.

Union Cabinet approves India-Myanmar agreement to prevent human trafficking

Police investigating the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-journey-to-death-in-a-container-what-we-know-about-chinese-victims-so-far-258094">deaths of 39 people</a>, believed to be Chinese nationals, found in a truck near London said they had arrested two people on Friday on suspicion of human trafficking and continued to quiz the driver as a murder suspect.

As China called on Britain to seek <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/essex-lorry-deaths-chinas-embassy-urges-uk-police-to-find-out-the-truth-about-39-bodies-discovered-in-truck-258039">"severe punishment" </a>for those involved in the deaths, police said they had detained a man and a woman, both aged 38, in Warrington, northwest England, on suspicion of conspiracy to traffic people and of 39 counts of manslaughter

The 25-year-old truck driver from Northern Ireland remains in custody after being arrested following the grim discovery of the bodies in the back of his refrigerated truck on an industrial estate near London in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

He has not been formally identified but a source familiar with the investigation named him as Mo Robinson from the Portadown area of the British province. Detectives will decide later whether to charge him with an offence, release him or ask a court for more time to quiz him.

Late on Thursday, British authorities moved 11 of the victims - 31 men and eight women - to a hospital mortuary from a secure location at docks near to the industrial estate in Grays about 20 miles&nbsp;east of London where the bodies were found.

Post-mortem examinations were beginning to determine how exactly they died while forensic experts sought to identify the deceased, which police warned would be a lengthy process.

The Chinese Embassy in London said it had sent a team to Essex, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said police had not yet been able to verify the nationalities of the deceased.

"We hope that the British side can as soon as possible confirm and verify the identities of the victims, ascertain what happened and severely punish criminals involved in the case," she told a daily news briefing.

For years, illegal immigrants have attempted to reach Britain stowed away in trucks, often from the European mainland. In 2000, 58 Chinese were found dead in a tomato truck at the port of Dover.

China's Global Times, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, said in a Friday editorial that Britain should bear some responsibility for the deaths.

Police investigating the deaths of 39 people, believed to be Chinese nationals, found in a truck near London said they had arrested two people on Friday on suspicion of human trafficking and continued to quiz the driver as a murder suspect.

Police investigating the deaths of 39 people, believed to be Chinese nationals, found in a truck near London said they had arrested two people on Friday on suspicion of human trafficking and continued to quiz the driver as a murder suspect. As China called on Britain to seek "severe punishment" for those involved in the deaths, police said they had detained a man and a woman, both aged 38, in Warrington, northwest England, on suspicion of conspiracy to traffic people and of 39 counts of manslaughter The 25-year-old truck driver from Northern Ireland remains in custody after being arrested following the grim discovery of the bodies in the back of his refrigerated truck on an industrial estate near London in the early hours of Wednesday morning. He has not been formally identified but a source familiar with the investigation named him as Mo Robinson from the Portadown area of the British province. Detectives will decide later whether to charge him with an offence, release him or ask a court for more time to quiz him. Late on Thursday, British authorities moved 11 of the victims - 31 men and eight women - to a hospital mortuary from a secure location at docks near to the industrial estate in Grays about 20 miles east of London where the bodies were found. Post-mortem examinations were beginning to determine how exactly they died while forensic experts sought to identify the deceased, which police warned would be a lengthy process. The Chinese Embassy in London said it had sent a team to Essex, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said police had not yet been able to verify the nationalities of the deceased. "We hope that the British side can as soon as possible confirm and verify the identities of the victims, ascertain what happened and severely punish criminals involved in the case," she told a daily news briefing. For years, illegal immigrants have attempted to reach Britain stowed away in trucks, often from the European mainland. In 2000, 58 Chinese were found dead in a tomato truck at the port of Dover. China's Global Times, which is published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, said in a Friday editorial that Britain should bear some responsibility for the deaths.

Essex lorry deaths: UK police arrest man and woman for human trafficking over truck deaths

Thousands of protesters marched to a police office in the north of Myanmar's largest city, Yangon, on Saturday (July 6), demanding speedy and transparent justice in a child-rape case that has sparked national outrage. Police said this week they had arrested a suspect in the rape of a toddler - nicknamed Victoria - at a private nursery school in the administrative capital, Naypyitaw, in May. Social media users have criticised the speed and professionalism of the police response after the girl's family filed a complaint more than a month ago, underscoring a lack of trust in authorities in a country still emerging from decades of military rule.

Thousands protest amid outcry over Myanmar child-rape case

The United States on Thursday added Saudi Arabia and Cuba to its blacklist of countries that it says are not doing enough <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-report-on-human-trafficking-ranks-myanmar-as-worst-offender-147827">to fight human trafficking</a>, a designation that could bring sanctions.

In an annual report, the State Department faulted ally Saudi Arabia for rampant violations against its vast foreign labour force and accused adversary Cuba of trafficking through its program of sending doctors overseas.

Other countries that remained on Tier 3, the worst ranking in the report, included China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela.

A Tier 3 designation means that the United States can restrict assistance or withdraw support for the country at the International Monetary Fund or other global development bodies.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States last year took measures against 22 countries due to the human trafficking designation.

"That action and the message that goes with it is very clear -- if you don't stand up to trafficking, America will stand up to you," Pompeo said as he presented the report alongside Ivanka Trump, President Donald Trump's daughter and adviser.

The president, however, can also waive sanctions over human trafficking, and US officials often hope that the shame of the Tier 3 designation will encourage action, especially when issued against US allies.

On Saudi Arabia, the United States said that the kingdom has prosecuted few traffickers and done too little to help human trafficking victims, instead often jailing, fining or deporting them by accusing them of immigration violations or prostitution.

The report called on Saudi Arabia to do more to screen and assist workers fleeing abusive bosses and to reform its sponsorship system, in which employers control workers' permits to leave the country.

The designation comes despite staunch and increasingly controversial support by Trump to Saudi Arabia on an array of fronts, including its offensive in Yemen, where millions face starvation in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Pompeo made no mention of Saudi Arabia in his remarks, instead leaving the message to the text of the report.

However, he singled out North Korea at a time that the United States is hoping to restart diplomacy with leader Kim Jong Un, for whom Trump has voiced admiration.

Pompeo said that North Korea was involved in human trafficking at the state level through its deployment of workers overseas and said Pyongyang "uses the proceeds to fund nefarious activities."

He also renewed criticism of China for its massive incarceration of an estimated one million Uighurs and other mostly Muslim members of Turkic-speaking minorities, saying the camps have produced garments, carpets, cleaning supplies and other goods for domestic consumption.

China, facing rising international criticism, describes its camps as vocational training centers aimed at reducing extremism.

Cuba is more frequently in the sights of the Trump administration, which said that the communist authorities threatened or coerced doctors to be part of its medical program, in which Havana sends tens of thousands of low-cost doctors around the world.

Cuba ended the program last year in Brazil after Jair Bolsonaro, the country's incoming right-wing president, described it as human trafficking.

The State Department also upgraded two countries from the Tier 3 designation -- Laos and Gabon.

It credited Laos with providing restitution and services to victims, while Gabon stepped up investigations and signed agreements with neighboring countries in western Africa to combat cross-border trafficking.

The United States on Thursday added Saudi Arabia and Cuba to its blacklist of countries that it says are not doing enough to fight human trafficking, a designation that could bring sanctions.

The United States on Thursday added Saudi Arabia and Cuba to its blacklist of countries that it says are not doing enough to fight human trafficking, a designation that could bring sanctions. In an annual report, the State Department faulted ally Saudi Arabia for rampant violations against its vast foreign labour force and accused adversary Cuba of trafficking through its program of sending doctors overseas. Other countries that remained on Tier 3, the worst ranking in the report, included China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela. A Tier 3 designation means that the United States can restrict assistance or withdraw support for the country at the International Monetary Fund or other global development bodies. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States last year took measures against 22 countries due to the human trafficking designation. "That action and the message that goes with it is very clear -- if you don't stand up to trafficking, America will stand up to you," Pompeo said as he presented the report alongside Ivanka Trump, President Donald Trump's daughter and adviser. The president, however, can also waive sanctions over human trafficking, and US officials often hope that the shame of the Tier 3 designation will encourage action, especially when issued against US allies. On Saudi Arabia, the United States said that the kingdom has prosecuted few traffickers and done too little to help human trafficking victims, instead often jailing, fining or deporting them by accusing them of immigration violations or prostitution. The report called on Saudi Arabia to do more to screen and assist workers fleeing abusive bosses and to reform its sponsorship system, in which employers control workers' permits to leave the country. The designation comes despite staunch and increasingly controversial support by Trump to Saudi Arabia on an array of fronts, including its offensive in Yemen, where millions face starvation in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Pompeo made no mention of Saudi Arabia in his remarks, instead leaving the message to the text of the report. However, he singled out North Korea at a time that the United States is hoping to restart diplomacy with leader Kim Jong Un, for whom Trump has voiced admiration. Pompeo said that North Korea was involved in human trafficking at the state level through its deployment of workers overseas and said Pyongyang "uses the proceeds to fund nefarious activities." He also renewed criticism of China for its massive incarceration of an estimated one million Uighurs and other mostly Muslim members of Turkic-speaking minorities, saying the camps have produced garments, carpets, cleaning supplies and other goods for domestic consumption. China, facing rising international criticism, describes its camps as vocational training centers aimed at reducing extremism. Cuba is more frequently in the sights of the Trump administration, which said that the communist authorities threatened or coerced doctors to be part of its medical program, in which Havana sends tens of thousands of low-cost doctors around the world. Cuba ended the program last year in Brazil after Jair Bolsonaro, the country's incoming right-wing president, described it as human trafficking. The State Department also upgraded two countries from the Tier 3 designation -- Laos and Gabon. It credited Laos with providing restitution and services to victims, while Gabon stepped up investigations and signed agreements with neighboring countries in western Africa to combat cross-border trafficking.

US adds Saudi Arabia, Cuba in human trafficking blacklist; China, Myanmar remain in list

The US on Thursday retained India in Tier 2 list of countries in its<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-saudi-arabia-cuba-in-human-trafficking-blacklist-china-myanmar-remain-on-list-229035"> annual report on human trafficking</a>, arguing that the country does not fully meet the minimum standards for its elimination even as it is making progress.

Tier 2 is for those countries whose governments do not fully meet the TVPA's minimum standards but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance with those standards.

TVPA stands for Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, which is a Congressional legislation that requires an annual report from the State Department on status of human trafficking in countries across the world. There are more than 90 countries in Tier 2.

In its India section of the report, the State Department said that the Indian Government does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so.

"The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared to the previous reporting period; therefore, India remained on Tier 2," said the annual report for the year 2018.

"These efforts included convicting traffickers, initiating a high-profile investigation into one case that allegedly involved officials complicit in sex trafficking at a government-funded shelter, and continuing to raise awareness of trafficking," he added.

The government took some action following reports of government complicity in forced labour and sex trafficking, although the systemic failure to address forced labour and sex trafficking in government-run and government-funded shelter homes remained a serious problem, it said.

The government did not report information on investigations, prosecutions, and convictions of traffickers, or on trafficking victims identified and referred to care, the State Department said.

According to the report, the government's efforts to address bonded labour remained insufficient compared to the scale of the problem, and in the majority of reported cases officials did not follow the law requiring provision of release certificates and compensation to bonded laborers removed from exploitation, which prevented victims from accessing government services and in some cases led to their re-victimization.

The State Department in its report recommended India to increase investigations, prosecutions, and convictions of all forms of trafficking, including bonded labour.

It urged India to vigorously investigate allegations of official complicity in human trafficking and sentence perpetrators to significant prison terms and develop and immediately implement regular monitoring mechanisms of government-run and government-funded shelters to ensure appropriate quality of care, and promptly disburse funding to shelters that meet official standards for care.

The report among other things also recommend establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) in all districts with clear mandates, dedicated funding, and specially trained staff.&nbsp;

"Amend the definition of trafficking in Section 370 of the Penal Code to include forced labour trafficking and ensure that force, fraud, or coercion are not required to prove a child sex trafficking offense," it said.

It also recommended India to cease forcible detention of adult trafficking victims in government-run and government-funded shelters and eliminate all recruitment fees charged to workers.

The US on Thursday retained India in Tier 2 list of countries in its annual report on human trafficking, arguing that the country does not fully meet the minimum standards for its elimination even as it is making progress.

The US on Thursday retained India in Tier 2 list of countries in its annual report on human trafficking, arguing that the country does not fully meet the minimum standards for its elimination even as it is making progress. Tier 2 is for those countries whose governments do not fully meet the TVPA's minimum standards but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance with those standards. TVPA stands for Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, which is a Congressional legislation that requires an annual report from the State Department on status of human trafficking in countries across the world. There are more than 90 countries in Tier 2. In its India section of the report, the State Department said that the Indian Government does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so. "The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared to the previous reporting period; therefore, India remained on Tier 2," said the annual report for the year 2018. "These efforts included convicting traffickers, initiating a high-profile investigation into one case that allegedly involved officials complicit in sex trafficking at a government-funded shelter, and continuing to raise awareness of trafficking," he added. The government took some action following reports of government complicity in forced labour and sex trafficking, although the systemic failure to address forced labour and sex trafficking in government-run and government-funded shelter homes remained a serious problem, it said. The government did not report information on investigations, prosecutions, and convictions of traffickers, or on trafficking victims identified and referred to care, the State Department said. According to the report, the government's efforts to address bonded labour remained insufficient compared to the scale of the problem, and in the majority of reported cases officials did not follow the law requiring provision of release certificates and compensation to bonded laborers removed from exploitation, which prevented victims from accessing government services and in some cases led to their re-victimization. The State Department in its report recommended India to increase investigations, prosecutions, and convictions of all forms of trafficking, including bonded labour. It urged India to vigorously investigate allegations of official complicity in human trafficking and sentence perpetrators to significant prison terms and develop and immediately implement regular monitoring mechanisms of government-run and government-funded shelters to ensure appropriate quality of care, and promptly disburse funding to shelters that meet official standards for care. The report among other things also recommend establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) in all districts with clear mandates, dedicated funding, and specially trained staff. "Amend the definition of trafficking in Section 370 of the Penal Code to include forced labour trafficking and ensure that force, fraud, or coercion are not required to prove a child sex trafficking offense," it said. It also recommended India to cease forcible detention of adult trafficking victims in government-run and government-funded shelters and eliminate all recruitment fees charged to workers.

US human trafficking report: Government made 'efforts' but India remains in Tier-2

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