THE three young women believed to be victims of suspected human and sex trafficking in Nadi were moved to a safe house on Monday.
The development was confirmed by Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua saying they are now under protective care and expected to be formally referred to police and social welfare authorities.
Mr Tikoduadua said the women had been placed in a secure location as part of ongoing efforts to ensure their immediate safety while investigations proceed.
“My instructions are that they should be referred to the police and the Ministry of Women and Social Protection, women and children,” he said.
“We can all agree that this is a collective responsibility. The security of the nation, everybody needs to come together.”
He said addressing such cases was not solely the responsibility of security agencies, but also required community awareness and co-operation, particularly in identifying and reporting people who may be in distress.
Mr Tikoduadua also stressed the importance of safeguarding children and women from exploitation.
“We need to protect each other. Parents need to look after their children so they don’t get subjected to that kind of threat.”
