Buteera Urges Careful Handling of Human Trafficking Victims
Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera has urged public prosecutors to handle human trafficking victims with sensitivity to prevent further trauma during investigations and court proceedings.
Speaking at a meeting organized by the Uganda Association of Prosecutors on December 13, 2024, Justice Buteera emphasized the importance of improving the quality of charges brought to court, especially in sensitive cases like human trafficking.
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“It’s high time public prosecutors ensure the quality of charges is improved. We need to protect victims, especially in sensitive cases like human trafficking, from further trauma during the legal process,” he said.
Asset Recovery and Capacity Building
Director of Public Prosecutions Jane Frances Abodo highlighted plans to expand the department’s asset recovery efforts beyond corruption cases to cover all crimes.
“We need to strengthen the capacities of key players in the criminal justice system and equip them with the necessary tools to combat human trafficking effectively,” Abodo noted.
Patricia Achan, Deputy Inspector General of Government, pointed out the link between corruption and human trafficking. She called for stronger collaboration between police, migration officers, and prosecutors to disrupt trafficking networks and ensure justice.
“Corruption facilitates trafficking and undermines justice and human dignity. Migration and police officers must play a critical role by preventing illicit movements and preserving evidence,” Achan emphasized.
A Step Toward Justice
The meeting, attended by legal professionals, focused on improving Uganda’s prosecution processes to combat crime effectively.
Participants underscored the need for better practices to ensure victims of human trafficking and other crimes receive justice without added harm.
The discussions come amidst rising cases of human trafficking, with sexual exploitation, child marriages, and human sacrifice identified as leading causes.
Uganda recorded 519 cases of human trafficking in recent reports, highlighting the urgency of addressing these crimes.
The call for enhanced prosecution practices represents a step toward strengthening Uganda’s justice system and protecting vulnerable populations.
