PARAMARIBO — A woman who was brought to Suriname under false pretenses and then forced to work as a prostitute has managed to escape her exploitative situation. After she raised the alarm at the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) department on Tuesday, an investigation was launched that led to the arrest of two suspects.
TIP, in collaboration with the CIU department and the Drone Unit of the Suriname Police Force, arrested the Cuban HL and the Surinamese CJ on Friday. Both were placed in custody after consultation with the Public Prosecution Service.
The investigation revealed that the victim was taken to Suriname under false promises. Once in the country, she was allegedly forced to work as a prostitute in nightclubs and a brothel in the interior. In addition, there was restriction of freedom and intimidation. The victim is said to have been systematically threatened, while the proceeds from her work were taken by others.
The police continue to investigate this case unabated. It is examined whether more people may have been involved in the exploitation of the victim.
Call to society
Human trafficking is a serious crime that often remains hidden. The police call on society to be alert to signs of exploitation and to report suspicious situations. The TIP department can be reached via telephone number +597 40018. Reports can also be made via WhatsApp on the numbers +597 7466228 and +597 8763789. It is possible to provide information anonymously.
