1 Feb 2006

American Samoan report alleges human trafficking between Samoas

2:17 pm on 1 February 2006

A report by American Samoa's Office of Territorial and International Criminal Intelligence and Drug Enforcement has highlighted the existence of organised crime in the territory, human trafficking cases and suspect business dealings.

The report, requested by Senate President, Lolo Letalu Moliga, says the full dimension of the human trafficking problem in American Samoa is difficult to measure but is a major source of profit for organised crime syndicates, along with trafficking in guns and drugs.

It claims that some airline and immigration agents from both Samoas are in collusion with the traffickers and large sums of money are involved.

The Office recommends that the lawmakers should pass legislation on human trafficking to address these criminal activities.