The Harare Magistrates’ Court has handed down a verdict on two individuals, including a police officer, who were involved in the trafficking of three women to Oman. Both offenders received a 20-year sentence each for their role in the heinous crime.
According to a statement released by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the perpetrators, Forward Mashonganyika, a police officer, and Tendai Muswe collaborated with Mohammed Ali Al Shihhi to deceive three unsuspecting women through WhatsApp. They falsely promised employment opportunities in Dubai but instead trafficked them to Oman for forced labor and sexual exploitation.
“The complainants only realized that they had been tricked when they arrived in Oman instead of being taken to Dubai as promised,” stated the NPAZ.
Upon their arrival in Oman, the victims were subjected to sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, and were provided with meager meals consisting of leftovers. Thankfully, the women managed to contact their families back home, who reported the incident to the authorities.
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Subsequent investigations revealed that Mashonganyika and Muswe received minimal payments of USD 74, USD 200, and USD 500 for their complicity in the trafficking scheme.
The sentencing of these individuals underscores the severity of human trafficking crimes and serves as a warning to others involved in such despicable acts. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation and vigilance in combatting human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse.
As efforts to combat human trafficking continue, it is imperative for authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and prosecuting perpetrators, while also providing support and assistance to victims of these egregious crimes.
