The International Justice Mission (IJM) Ghana has urged the public, particularly young people, to be vigilant against online recruitment scams that traffickers increasingly use to lure victims into forced labour and other forms of exploitation.
The call was made to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, also known as Blue Day, which this year is being observed under the theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” highlighting the growing threat of cyber-enabled human trafficking.
In an exclusive interview with Univers News, Communications Specialist at IJM Ghana, Kojo Manu, said trafficking remains a reality in communities across Ghana and is increasingly being facilitated through online platforms.
“Trafficking is happening right here in Ghana, in our towns, villages, cities, across borders, and all over the world,” Manu stated.
“Traffickers are finding new ways of exploiting people. The global theme this year focuses on online scamming and the pain behind the scam.”
He cautioned young people to carefully verify job offers and other opportunities advertised online before making any commitments.
“There are a lot of online recruitment schemes that are not genuine. You have to be very vigilant and diligent before committing yourself to any form of recruitment,” he advised.
Human trafficking remains a significant challenge in Ghana despite efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat the crime. Victims are often deceived or coerced into forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse through false promises of employment, education and better economic opportunities.
Although Ghana criminalised human trafficking through the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), advocates say traffickers continue to adopt new methods, particularly through digital platforms, making public awareness and vigilance increasingly important.
Manu stressed that tackling human trafficking requires collective action and encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
“If you see something, say something. If there is any movement that is suspicious to you, report directly to the Police Service. Reporting is safe, and officers have been trained to handle these cases. You can also utilize the Whistleblowers Act,” he said.
He added that individuals who are unable to contact the police directly could report concerns to trusted community leaders, including assembly members, District Chief Executives, traditional authorities or religious leaders.
“Let us all work together to support the state so that we can create a Ghana where children and adults are safe, where the system works, and where our justice system ensures we are all protected,” he added.
World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed annually on July 30 to raise awareness of human trafficking and promote the protection of victims. As part of the global campaign, individuals and organisations wear blue or display the Blue Heart, the international symbol of solidarity with victims and a stand against human trafficking.
–
Story by Abraham Aboagye and Charles Wumbe Dauda | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
