NAHTTF CONDUCTED AN AWARENESS PROGRAMME FOCUSED ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND HUMAN SMUGGLING TO SRI LANKA AIR FORCE

The National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force(NAHTTF), in collaboration with the Directorate of Welfare of the Sri Lanka Air Force, conducted an Awareness Programme focused on Human Trafficking and Human Smuggling. This initiative aimed to educate Air Force personnel who are approaching retirement, ensuring they are informed about these critical issues.

The primary objective of the programme is to prevent ex- military personnel from becoming victims of Human Trafficking and to explain them about the consequences of Human Smuggling.

It has been observed that some war veterans have fallen victims to Human Trafficking ,having been lured by traffickers with promises of opportunities to join foreign government forces,obtain citizenship in developed countries,receive attractive salaries and enjoy decent living conditions. In reality these retired military personnel have often found themselves employed in mercenary groups without compensation. Consequently, the awareness programme specially addressed these incidents to enhance participants' understanding and equip them with the knowledge necessary to avoid such traps set by human traffickers and human smugglers.

More than 150 Air Force members participated in the event in person, while additional members attended online. Major S.A. Gunawardane( Attorney at Law), representing the NAHTTF, served as a resource person in the event.