Gov’t to Act on Suspected Human Trafficking Behind Growing Number of Rohingya Refugees

President Jokowi delivers a press statement accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung and Minister of State Secretary Pratikno at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Friday (12/08). (Source: a screenshot)

Indonesia suspects human trafficking behind the increasing flow of Rohingya refugees into the country, particularly Aceh province.

“I received a report on the growing number of Rohingya refugees entering Indonesian territory, especially Aceh province. We strongly suspect that human trafficking network is involved in the refugee flow,” President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said in a press statement on Friday (12/08) at the State Palace in Jakarta.

The President underscored that the Government will take strict actions on human traffickers with regard to the entry of the refugees, adding that the Government will also provide temporary assistance for them while still prioritizing the interest of the local community.

“Temporary humanitarian aid will be given to the refugees while still prioritizing the interest of the local community,” he said while stating that Indonesia will continue to coordinate with international organizations to solve the refugee issue. (TGH/UN) (DH/MMB)