Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Handles TPPO Victims from West Java and Collaborates for Prevention

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection states that it is providing protection and support to victims of suspected human trafficking (TPPO) from West Java, and collaborating across sectors for law enforcement and prevention efforts. “The victims are from West Java, the incident first occurred in Timika, then moved to Biak, and we can assist through collaborative synergy. Currently, the victims are within our reach and are now at Rumah Sapa,” said Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi in Jakarta on Wednesday. Arifah stated that this case is a serious violation of human rights, particularly against women in vulnerable situations. The victims, she said, experienced a series of exploitation starting from job offer scams on social media, until they were forced to work outside the agreement and were in conditions threatening their safety and mental health. “This situation shows that TPPO practices still exploit economic vulnerability and the lack of digital literacy in society,” she said. The chronology, according to Arifah, is that the victim saw information about a job vacancy as a domestic assistant in Jakarta. That night, the victim was picked up by a husband-and-wife couple bringing a child, so the victim’s family felt that their child was indeed going to work. “But upon arriving in Timika, after Timika from November to the end of January, then transferred to Biak,” she said. Then, she continued, always ensure the truth and clarity of information on social media to avoid negative things. The ministry assures that the state is present in providing protection to victims, from outreach, assessment, to gradual repatriation to their home areas with comprehensive support. “Currently, the victims are receiving services at Rumah Sapa, including psychological support to recover from their trauma,” she added. She emphasised that handling TPPO cases must be comprehensive, not only focusing on victim recovery, but also law enforcement against perpetrators to create a deterrent effect, and integrating prevention efforts. The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection has carried out cross-sector collaboration, which will be key in breaking the human trafficking chain. The government also urges the public to be more vigilant against unclear job offers, especially those circulating on social media. “If the public finds or experiences indications of TPPO or violence against women and children, they can immediately report via Sapa 129 or WhatsApp at 08-111-129-129,” she said.