Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative Calls for Increased Support Following Landmark Human Trafficking Convictions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative Calls for Increased Support Following Landmark Human Trafficking Convictions
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative (LATSVSI) has called on the Government of Liberia, international development partners, civil society organizations, and well-meaning individuals to strengthen support for national efforts to combat human trafficking, irregular migration, and scam-related crimes through sustained public awareness and victim protection initiatives.
The appeal follows a landmark ruling by a Liberian court in the country’s largest human trafficking prosecution, in which eight defendants were sentenced to 50 years’ imprisonment each—the longest human trafficking sentences ever handed down in Liberia—while three additional defendants received 20-year prison terms. The court also awarded US$120,000 in restitution to the victims, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fight against human trafficking and the pursuit of justice for survivors.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Director of the Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative, Zokerseh B. Saye, described the verdict as a major victory for victims and the rule of law. He emphasized that the outcome demonstrates the importance of sustained collaboration among government institutions, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and civil society organizations in addressing trafficking in persons.
Mr. Saye noted that the Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative remains the only institution in the country consistently conducting nationwide public awareness campaigns on human trafficking, irregular migration, and scam-related activities. He said these awareness efforts are essential in preventing exploitation, educating vulnerable communities, and encouraging citizens to report suspected trafficking cases.
“Following the successful coordination and support provided in this historic trafficking in persons case, it is now time for the Government of Liberia and its development partners to recognize the critical role of our institution by providing the financial and institutional support necessary to expand our awareness and victim-support programs across the country,” Mr. Saye said.
He further stated that the organization was established to complement the Government of Liberia’s efforts in combating human trafficking and related transnational crimes. Since its establishment, the institution has remained committed to supporting investigations, promoting public education, advocating for stronger anti-trafficking measures, and ensuring that traffickers are brought to justice while victims receive the protection, assistance, and justice they deserve.
The Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with national and international partners to strengthen Liberia’s response to human trafficking and other forms of exploitation. The organization urged all stakeholders to invest in prevention, victim support, and public education as key pillars in the fight against trafficking in persons.
About the Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative
The Liberia Anti-Trafficking and Scam Victims Support Initiative is a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting the Government of Liberia’s efforts to combat human trafficking, irregular migration, online scams, and related crimes. The organization works to promote public awareness, support victims, advocate for justice, and strengthen national efforts to prevent exploitation and protect vulnerable populations.
Contact: Hotline 08818 24711
Address: 14th Street, Gibson Avenue, Monrovia, Montserrado County, Liberia
Telephone: +231 775 718 316 | +231 886 959 535 | +231 880 374 460
Email: info@latsvsi.org | contact@latsvsi.org
Website: www.latsvsi.org
