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Most victims of TIP unwilling to testify against perpetrators
The unwillingness of some victims of Trafficking in Persons (TIP) to testify against their perpetrators continues to be a challenge to the Ministerial Task Force on TIP.
According to the Secretary of the Task Force, Clement Henry, “most victims of TIP prefer to forget the ordeal and move on with their lives rather than see their perpetrators behind bars.” While, victims’ statements could be used against perpetrators in Court, their actual cooperation is necessary for obtaining evidence. Evidence collection is another challenge to the Task Force owing the high cost attached and victims’ reluctance to help in the process.
Henry revealed that it is costly to transport the victim and a family member to the area (for instance the hinterland region) where the crime was committed. “Going back to the area is necessary in collecting evidence, since the victim would help to identify certain structures and reveal additional key details,” he explained.
This aspect of the Task Force is supported by the International Organization for Migration. According to Henry, TIP is not an endemic problem in Guyana but even if it was one or 11 cases, it is a matter of concern. Internal TIP occurs in every Region and undercover officers are dispersed to observe.
Assistance is available for victims of TIP, thanks to Help and Shelter, a Non-Governmental Organization, and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. Henry said that victims are provided with temporary shelter, financial assistance, skills training, education and money for an entrepreneurial venture.
He noted that the Task Force had suggested the creation of a variety of skill levels to help build capacities in communities. This was done in Region Nine with assistance from the Catholic Relief Services.
According to Henry, the Task Force is currently implementing its two-year plan which includes public awareness and identification of victims. Citizens could play a major role combating this plight.
“They have to be vigilant and observe persons who appear fearful in their working environment; and who are seldom left alone and are mostly in the company of the perpetrator,” Henry added.
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