STRENGTHENING ONLINE INVESTIGATION CAPACITIES TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING

The Technical Workshop on building online investigation capacity to address Trafficking in Persons into Cyber-Scam Centres and Related Transnational Crime was successfully concluded on 25 April 2025 at the Granbell Hotel, Colombo. Co-hosted by the National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (NAHTTF) of Sri Lanka and the Regional Support Office (RSO) of the Bali Process, the five-day training brought together 37 participants from seven South Asian countries; Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka representing law enforcement, intelligence, and counter-trafficking agencies.

The workshop officially commenced with opening remarks delivered by the Chief of National Intelligence (CNI) of Sri Lanka, in his capacity as Head of the Officials Committee of the NAHTTF. The Chief of National Intelligence highlighted the growing threat of trafficking for forced criminality into cyber-scam centres and the need for intelligence-led, and technology driven strategies to combat emerging digital forms of exploitation. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening regional cooperation and capacity building.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in a comprehensive, hands-on training programme covering both foundational and advanced Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) techniques. They also explored practical methods related to ethical considerations and safeguarding human rights. The daily scenario-based exercises provided opportunities to apply their skills to real-world trafficking cases, encouraging collaborative learning and innovation.

The closing ceremony was attended by British Deputy High Commissioner Lisa Whanstall, representing the donor community. In her remarks, Ms. Whanstall emphasized the critical importance of enhancing digital investigation capabilities to address the evolving threats of human trafficking. She congratulated all participants on their successful completion of the programme and reaffirmed the international community’s continued support in building regional resilience.

Certificates of successful completion were awarded to all 37 participants, marking a significant milestone in regional efforts to enhance technological capacities to combat human trafficking. Equipped with new tools and expertise, participants are now better prepared to identify, investigate, and disrupt cyber-enabled trafficking operations, while strengthening protection mechanisms for vulnerable communities across the region.