Anna Lixi (2nd L) handing over the donation to Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah as EOCO and Expertise France officials look on
The European Union (EU), through Expertise France, has handed over some equipment to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) towards the fight against human trafficking.
The donation, including desktop and laptop computers, office cabinets, UPS, and hard drives, was in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.
The equipment is to create a platform for awareness raising campaigns and sensitization on the dangers associated with all forms of exploitation and human trafficking.
Presenting the items to EOCO, Head of Governance Sector, European Union, Ghana, Anna Lixi, emphasised the value of thematic instruction and interagency cooperation in tackling human trafficking.
She highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach, including strengthening the criminal justice system and providing recommendations for investigation and prosecution.
Ms Lixi also noted the significance of addressing the root causes of human trafficking, such as poverty and lack of education.
She, thus, hopped the resources provided, including equipment, will be utilized to support the functioning of the anti-human trafficking unit.
EOCO Boss, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, receiving the items, expressed her gratitude for the donation highlighting that collaboration and support are crucial in combating human trafficking.
She highlighted the rescue of over 60 victims and the protection of their rights.
Madam Addo-Danquah used the platform to commend the head of the anti-human trafficking unit and other team members for their efforts, emphasizing the need for continued support and awareness.
Head of the anti human trafficking unit, EOCO, Dominic Mensah, said the unit which is mandated to detect and prevent organized crime, including human trafficking faced a lot of challenges such as a lack of understanding of human trafficking among judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies.
He, however, noted that Expertise France is supporting the fight against human trafficking in Ghana through a three-phase program, including needs assessment, support for law enforcement agencies, and impact assessment.
A similar donation was made to the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Immigration Service.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri