28 Rwandans rescued from human trafficking

Rwandan Police have rescued 28 people from human trafficking.

The victims Monday told police and journalists in Kigali that they were lured with promises of a good life in Australia, but ended up in Burundi apparently to process travel documents.

The victims explained that they were duped by a certain pastor during a crusade at a church in Kigali.

"This man presented to me and my family a number of opportunities that we would get if we went to Australia. He requested for 2.4 million Rwandan Franc which I gave him purportedly for processing travel documents for me, my husband and our five children." Julienne Kamariza, one of the female victims told journalists.

She said the man convinced them there was an easier way of getting visas from Burundi.

"However, when we reached in Burundi, we got stuck there for two months until when we decided to return and we were received by officials from immigration at the border," she added.

Paulin Polepole, Rwanda Directorate General of immigration and emigration, said the victims included children as young as one year old to those who are as old as 50 years old.

"Some had sold their properties, others took their entire families. This is how sad it is; we should collectively stand up against human trafficking," Polepole said.

Rwanda Police Spokesperson Celestin Twahirwa said Monday that although human trafficking is not rampant in Rwanda, it remains a concern that requires everyone's attention.

"Although the victims have been brought back home and rejoined with their families, investigations are still going on to identify and arrest anyone connected to this human trafficking ring," he said. Enditem