The Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking (ETAHT) has warned pastors and reverends of some Christian denominations, and other religious leaders, actively promoting irregular migration and the trafficking of Edo young men and women to desist from such acts or risk imprisonment.
In a statement issued yesterday, the taskforce noted that,these offences are highly prohibited and punishable under the Edo State Trafficking in Persons Prohibition Law, 2018, with punishment, on conviction, ranging from imprisonment term of not less than seven years to a fine of not less than N1 million.
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“It is an offence for any person to promote foreign travels which encourage prostitution or other forms of exploitation, as this is punishable for a term of not less than seven years and a fine of not less than N1 million.”
It also warned that it “will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any pastor, reverend or any person, no matter how highly placed or connected in the society, who engages in such activities and ensures they face the legal consequences of their actions.”
The task force cautioned the public to desist from making statements in church debates and shows on media channels which promote and encourage human trafficking and irregular migration.