10 Jul 2014

The Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Mr Dikgakgamatso Seretse on July 9, presented before Parliament a bill that seeks to among others suppress and punish any activity in human trafficking.

Presenting the Anti-human Trafficking Bill before Parliament, Mr Seretse said trafficking of people, especially women and children had become a serious crime over the years, threatening the security of countries.

He said human trafficking reports indicate that victims are used among others in  forced labour, prostitution, child soldiers and pornography as well as atrocities such as organ harvesting and extreme human rights abuse.

Mr Seretse therefore said the Anti-human Trafficking Bill of 2014, which has a total of 33 clauses, seeks to among others, provide measures to protect and assist victims of human trafficking.

He said the bill will also establish a committee which will be supervised by the minister and chaired by the permanent secretary under the Ministry of Defence, Justice and Security, while other committee members will be representatives from other departments under the same ministry.

Mr Seretse said the committee will serve among others, to determine policies for giving effect to the objects and purposes of the Parlemo protocol, make recommendations to the minister concerning policy on prevention and suppression of human trafficking as well as to lay down strategies and measures for the prevention and suppression of trafficking in persons.

Mr Seretse said those found guilty of contravening the law would be liable to a fine of P500 000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 25 years.

He said the law will also take care of those who take part in supporting acts of human trafficking such as leasing or use of houses, buildings and other premises for human trafficking purposes.

Mr Seretse said the bill will also protect victims of human trafficking, such as exempting them from prosecution in case of offences related to being in Botswana illegally as well as exemption in paying court fees if they institutes civil action.

He said the bill will also establish a trust fund for victims of human trafficking. ENDS