'Govt takes tough stance against human trafficking-online scams'

''The government remains committed to maintaining a 'zero tolerance' policy against international human trafficking and scam networks that exploit technology for criminal activities.

The minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a high-level national dialogue titled "Trapped behind the Scam: Ending Human Trafficking for Forced Criminality" at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Thursday.

The event was part of efforts to raise awareness and strengthen cooperation in preventing human trafficking, particularly crimes involving online scams and forced criminal activities.

The minister said the nature of human trafficking is constantly evolving and becoming more complex. Criminal networks are no longer relying solely on traditional methods; they are increasingly using digital platforms, fake online recruitment portals and various social media channels to lure young people and job seekers.

''Victims are often taken abroad with false promises of attractive employment opportunities and a better future. However, many later find themselves trapped in cyber scam centres, where they are subjected to severe abuse, intimidation and forced to engage in criminal activities.''

He said conventional law enforcement alone is no longer sufficient to tackle the evolving threat and called for stronger collaboration among technology companies, financial institutions, the private sector and civil society.