20th September 2023
KAMPALA – In a collaborative effort to combat human trafficking in Uganda, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Uganda Police Force (UPF) have launched Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for investigating and prosecuting Trafficking in Persons (TIP) cases. The Inaugural National Workshop on these SOPs took place from September 18th to 20th, 2023, gathering representatives from all 19 Regions of ODPP and 28 Regions of UPF.
The initiative was organized under the umbrella of the Multi-Agency Task Force, which aims to promote and oversee the implementation of these crucial SOPs. Developed by ODPP and UPF in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Coordination Office for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Financial Intelligence Authority, Willow International, and Platform for Labour Action, these procedures are supported by UNODC and CIVIPOL.
The SOPs are aligned with the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2009 and other relevant laws, serving as a powerful tool to combat TIP, protect victims, and bring perpetrators to justice. They provide a framework for comprehensive and effective criminal proceedings against TIP, encompassing both reactive and proactive investigative approaches. The procedures also emphasize international police cooperation and financial inquiries.
Moreover, these SOPs adopt a human rights-based, victim/vulnerability-centered, and trauma-informed approach, with particular consideration for gender and child-focused concerns. They prioritize safeguarding and referring TIP victims for appropriate assistance while simultaneously bolstering prosecution efforts.
Mr. George William Byansi, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, highlighted the importance of these SOPs in enhancing the capabilities of prosecutors and standardizing the handling of TIP cases. He expressed optimism that they would lead to increased convictions and more effective law enforcement.
AIGP Tom Magambo Rwabudongo, Director of CID, commended the SOPs as a step towards Uganda’s transformation, emphasizing the enduring value of education for societal progress. CP Julius Twinomujuni, Coordinator of the Coordination Office for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons, underscored how these SOPs would fortify investigations and prosecutions related to TIP cases.
These SOPs are set to be jointly used by prosecutors, police officers, immigration officers, labor inspectors, Civil Society Organizations, representatives of the Financial Intelligence Authority, and community leaders.
The launch of these SOPs through the inaugural national workshop demonstrates a resolute and unified effort to combat Trafficking in Persons in Uganda, signaling a brighter future for victims and a stronger stance against this heinous crime.
