Tonga’s Technical Working Group (TWG) for Trafficking in Persons (TIP) uncovered a human trafficking case, leading to the arrest of the accused last week according a public statement. The suspect, whose identity remains confidential, was charged with trafficking in persons and is currently in police custody.
The TWG, with support from USAID Pacific RISE-CTIP, coordinated efforts to assist the victim, offering meals, temporary shelter, transportation, counselling, and ensuring the victim’s safe return to their home country.
Tonga Police worked alongside the TWG and other relevant agencies to build a strong case within a week, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing human trafficking.
Tonga’s first National Action Plan to Counter Trafficking in Persons and Protect Vulnerable Migrants was launched late last year. The National Action Plan, part of IOM’s Migrant Assistance and Protection project, was funded by the IOM Development Fund.
Established in 2021, Tonga’s Technical Working Group (TWG) includes 13 ministries and agencies, aiming to prevent exploitation and abuse through multi-agency cooperation, chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
TWG continues to raise awareness on the issue and urges the public to report suspicious activity to the toll-free TIP hotline, 922, or their local police station.