Mukti and RPF MDSTI Join Forces to Combat Human Trafficking

In a significant step towards combating human trafficking, Mukti has partnered for the first time with one of the most prestigious Multi-disciplinary Specialized Training Institutes (MDSTI) of the Eastern Command, which serves the Railway Protection Force (RPF) under the Ministry of Railways. On July 23, 2024, in collaboration with RPF MDSTI, Mukti facilitated a day-long reflective sensitization program at the MDSTI premises. The event engaged and involved 37 Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) officers (SI rank) from the Western, Northern, and Southern Commands.

Through this collaborative effort, MUKTI pledged to provide expertise and intelligence to enhance the capabilities of RPF AHTU officers. The program effectively addressed all tactical mechanisms necessary to combat human trafficking, one of the most severe crimes in India.

The session began with an introduction to the RPF AHTU law enforcement officers from various batches across India. It then covered the basics of human trafficking, international protocols, national conventions, constitutional mechanisms, investigation procedures, roles and responsibilities of AHTU officers, and especially cybercrime in the context of sextortion and human smuggling.

NCRB crime statistics reflect the grim reality of human trafficking in India, with Bengal becoming a hotspot due to its demographics. Bengal shares extensive borders with Bangladesh, as well as friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan, increasing the risk of involvement in Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) groups.

The Sundarban region in Bengal is particularly vulnerable to human trafficking due to poverty, economic instability, and unemployment. In the digital era, trafficking can occur swiftly and discreetly if individuals are not aware of the dangers. For two decades, MUKTI has been working in the Sundarban region to alleviate poverty and provide preventive services to those in need. This extensive experience and commitment led RPF MDSTI officers to collaborate with MUKTI for specialized training for law enforcement officers.

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