The recent case of traffickers exploiting people and selling their kidneys in Cambodia underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent and combat such abhorrent crimes. With over 2,100 trafficking victims rescued, and more than 800 suspects linked to illegal schemes, Indonesia must adopt a coordinated and multifaceted approach to confront the growing challenges of transnational crimes, which are fueled by advancements in technology.

The entwined nature of human trafficking and the illegal organ trade calls for a targeted response from law enforcement agencies and the government. The exploitation of vulnerable job seekers in human trafficking rings exposes the interconnectedness of these crimes. Victims lured by promises of employment fall prey to the organ trade, leaving them traumatized and in dire straits. The involvement of law enforcement officials in such criminal enterprises further exacerbates the challenges in combating these crimes.

Corruption within police institutions weakens the integrity of law enforcement and undermines the fight against human trafficking and illegal organ trade. The recent arrest of a police officer and an immigration officer allegedly involved in the organ trade demands a thorough investigation of corruption within the police force. Rooting out corrupt practices and ensuring accountability within the ranks is essential to upholding the rule of law and protecting future victims.

The Indonesian regulation concerning human trafficking is stipulated under Law No 21/2007 on Elimination of Human Trafficking Crimes and Migrant Worker Protection Law No 18/2017. To effectively combat human trafficking and illegal organ trade, Indonesia must strengthen its legal frameworks and ensure that they are in line with international best practices. Stricter penalties for law enforcement officials involved in these crimes will serve as a powerful deterrent and demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding justice.

In a significant step toward combating human trafficking, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo instructed the formation of an Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force coordinated by the Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) of the National Police on June 10. This specialized taskforce will play a crucial role in intensifying efforts to dismantle trafficking networks and enhancing cooperation with international partners in tackling transnational crimes.

Another relevant issue in the realm of transnational crimes is the online fraud syndicate, which operates servers overseas and facilitates connections between Indonesian players and foreign individuals involved in the business. This demands a coordinated approach from international law enforcement. Extraterritorial jurisdiction plays a crucial role in protecting a state’s interests when dealing with crimes committed beyond its borders.

In order to address human trafficking and the illegal organ trade effectively, a comprehensive approach is crucial. Here are recommendations for the Indonesian government and the antihuman trafficking task force.

First, reinforce legal frameworks. Indonesia must strengthen the implementation of its legislation specifically targeting human trafficking and illegal organ trade in accordance with international standards and best practices. Stricter penalties for law enforcement officials involved in these crimes will serve as a powerful deterrent.

Second, embrace multilateral collaboration. This can take form by forging strong bilateral and multilateral partnerships with other destination countries struggling with the issue, such as Cambodia, China and neighboring Southeast Asian nations. This collaboration will facilitate intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks involved in human trafficking and illegal organ trade.

Third, empower law enforcement. The government should invest in specialized training and capacity building for law enforcement officers in all levels to effectively combat transnational crimes. Ensuring that officers have the necessary tools and expertise will enhance their ability to apprehend perpetrators.

Fourth, prioritize a victim-centered approach. Indonesia needs to prioritize victim rehabilitation and protection, providing medical, psychological and legal assistance. Empathy and support for victims will encourage their cooperation in investigations and prosecutions.

Fifth, push for technological advancements. This will help Indonesia harness advanced technology to track and identify online criminal activities related to human trafficking and illegal organ trade. Emphasizing digital forensics will enable law enforcement to stay one step ahead of tech-savvy traffickers.

Sixth, implement internal police reform. The National Police’s task force should work in conjunction with internal police reform efforts to enhance transparency, integrity and ethical conduct within the police institution. Strengthening internal accountability mechanisms will help eradicate corruption and restore public trust.

The harrowing case of human trafficking and illegal organ trade involving law enforcement officials calls for swift and comprehensive action. By implementing the recommendations and working collectively with the newly formed anti-human trafficking task force, the government can pave the way for a safer, more just society, in which human rights are upheld and criminals are held accountable for their actions.

A coordinated and multifaceted approach is essential to combat these cross-border, organized crimes and to protect vulnerable communities from exploitation.

***

The writer is an Indonesian lawyer based in London and a Cambridge Trust scholar. 

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