West Ala. The Human Trafficking Task Force works with a group from Africa

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) – Human trafficking is a global problem. That’s why a group of African dignitaries came from West Alabama to Tuscaloosa to find answers on how to identify the problem and save the victims in their countries.

Tuscaloosa is also home to the West Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force. Unit members met with the Africa group and answered questions and offered suggestions on how anti-human trafficking tactics in West Alabama might work in their countries.

The group included representatives from 11 different African countries, including police officers and prosecutors, among others concerned with human trafficking.

A member of the group spoke about the importance of their visit through an interpreter. “Trafficking in persons in my country does exist. And as I said earlier, the State Department is continuously helping us,” said Maria Gomez of the Ministry of Security and Civil Protection of the Republic of Guinea.

Local investigators shared their thoughts on how to help others fight human trafficking. “Well, potentially some laws that they could take back or rewrite for their country or even just how partnerships make us better. And involve the community in what we do as much as we can,” explained Sgt. Ashley Blaylock with the West Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force.

After leaving Tuscaloosa, the group traveled to Birmingham to discuss with other experts how to combat human trafficking.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE WBRC FOX6 NEWS APP

Subscribe to our WBRC newsletter and get the latest local news and weather straight to your email.

Copyright 2022 WBRC. All rights reserved.