‘The NAHTTF plans to introduce human trafficking module into the Tri-Forces military training curriculum’ - Defence Secretary
June 08, 2024- Human trafficking is a grave crime that undermines the very fabric of our society - Defence Secretary
‘The Armed Forces play a paramount role in border security, which is vital for preventing cross-border trafficking. Furthermore, the involvement of the Armed Forces in rehabilitation and reintegration programs for trafficking survivors is a critical component of our comprehensive anti-trafficking strategy.’
Defence Secretary and Chairman of National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (NAHTTF) General Kamal Gunaratne said so while making the opening remarks at the Human Trafficking Training Programme conducted for Tri - Forces senior officers at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo yesterday (Jun 07).
Gen. Gunaratne stressed the need for collaboration between military intelligence services and other agencies for tracking and dismantling trafficking networks. Continuous vigilance and the sharing of intelligence are key to our success in this fight, he said.
The training session was conducted as an integral part of the National Strategic Action Plan to Monitor and Combat Human Trafficking in Sri Lanka for the period 2021-2025.
The session provided a platform to understand the relevant sections of the Penal Code and international legal frameworks that address human trafficking, which is crucial for effectively combating this persistent issue.
Resource personnel from the Attorney General’s Department, Additional Solicitor General Mrs. Haripriya Jayasundara PC and Senior Deputy Solicitor General Mr. Dileepa Peiris conducted lectures, providing a clear and detailed understanding of human trafficking while addressing doubts and providing insightful knowledge to combat this crime effectively.
Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, Chief of National Intelligence (CNI) Maj. Gen. Ruwan Kulatunga, NAHTTF officials and a large number of senior Tri - Forces officers were present at the occasion.
