The Ministry of Homeland Security’s Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) says it is reviewing allegations contained in a Guardian interview with a man who claimed he operated a human trafficking ring in Trinidad and Tobago for years.
In a statement on Friday, the CTU said it had taken note of the July 26 article, Confessions of a Former Human Trafficker: Alex Philip Recounts Smuggling Women into T&T, and the accompanying video interview, which it said had generated significant public concern.
While stressing it could not comment on the accuracy of statements made through the media, the Unit said the information had been brought to the attention of the appropriate authorities and was being reviewed to determine what investigative or other action may be required.
The CTU said allegations involving the recruitment, transportation, harbouring or receipt of persons for the purpose of exploitation are treated seriously under the Trafficking in Persons Act and assessed in accordance with established investigative and legal procedures.
It also sought to reassure the public that credible information relating to suspected trafficking in persons can inform intelligence gathering, ongoing enquiries or future investigations, regardless of when the alleged conduct may have occurred.
The statement follows Guardian’s interview with Alex Philip, who claimed he trafficked Venezuelan women and girls into Trinidad between 2010 and 2016, operated the network with police protection and catered to wealthy clients. The Guardian has not independently verified those claims.
Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander said the allegations had understandably attracted significant public attention and would be treated with the seriousness they deserve.
“Where allegations of trafficking in persons arise, they are treated with the seriousness they deserve and are referred through the appropriate channels for assessment and any action considered necessary under the law,” he said.
The CTU is also encouraging anyone with information relating to the allegations, or any other suspected incidents of human trafficking, to come forward, saying reports may assist ongoing intelligence gathering, investigations or the identification and protection of victims.
