The Ministry of Internal Affairs has disclosed that 22 Ugandans are currently being held captive in Myanmar after falling victim to human trafficking for labour purposes.
Deputy National Coordinator of Prevention and Trafficking in Persons, Basalirwa Derrick Kigenyi said that the victims, comprising 17 males and 5 females, were initially promised employment opportunities in Thailand. However, they were subsequently trafficked to Myanmar in Asia.
He identified the 17 male victims as Luyima Mahadi, Ssemogerere Freba, Kalanzi Andrew Mucho, Kawuma Alvin, Nabimba Lawrence, Lubega Alex, Mwesezi Gidion, Musoke Hakram, Kigundu Joshua, Kigundu Abdul, Muwonge Constant, Ssemuju Brian, Lukyamuzi Yusuf, Tumwine Sulait, Yawe Lawrence, Bossa Usama, and Sebyala Alex. Additionally, he named five female victims as Namugenyi Shamira, Zalwango Flavia, Kimuli Brenda, Nalwadda Faridah, and Namutebi Jacinta.
“We have come out and revealed the names of victims to the general public to let anyone with information on how they left the country and who connected them report to nearby police for more investigation and also to bring the culprits to book,” said Basalirwa.
He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in solving such cases, urging individuals with relevant information to come forward.
Basalirwa also advised all Ugandans to exercise caution and not be lured by individuals or labour companies without first verifying their legitimacy with the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development.
