UNODC pilots new manual on prevention, detection and investigation of trafficking in persons crimes in Tajikistan

A two-day training for 14 investigators from Criminal Investigation Department and Combating Organized Crime Department of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Tajikistan conducted in Dushanbe. The training aimed to develop knowledge and skills to effectively lead and implement criminal investigations of trafficking in persons (TIP) crime. The training was organized by the

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Tajikistan.

“We support the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan in achieving its commitments in combating trafficking in persons, building safer country with strong justice system and believe that enhanced knowledge and skills of law enforcement officers to investigate and prosecute trafficking in persons cases including use of victim-centered approach will  strengthen criminal justice response to TiP cases” - noted Ms. Mutabara Vohidova, a.i. Head of the UNODC Programme Office in Tajikistan.

During the training, a new UNODC developed manual on prevention and investigation of crimes on trafficking in persons was piloted. The manual consists of various investigative techniques, detection methods, how to handle allegations and reports of trafficking offences, interrogation tactics of victims of trafficking considering their psychological state, and tactics of suspects, as well as, guidelines on forensics and information sharing.

According to Ms. Vohidova, victims who can tell their stories and testify as a witness are key to successful human trafficking investigations and prosecutions. “When encountering a potential victim, it is important to remember that victims may not be comfortable coming forward and working with law enforcement. They need help to feel stable, safe and secure”.

"Victims not villains", an educational movie, developed by UNODC, was demonstrated to criminal justice practitioners. This video includes best practices in how to address the needs of victims and witnesses, afford assistance and protection measures during trial.

UNODC, as guardian of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and the Protocols thereto, assists Republic of Tajikistan in its efforts to implement the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons (Trafficking in Persons Protocol), especially Women and Children.  

UNODC initiative to strengthen the law enforcement response to trafficking in persons in Tajikistan is funded by the US State Department Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

 

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