Ranchi

Stressing the growing threat posed by human trafficking and organised criminal syndicates, Kathy Giles-Diaz said trafficking networks endanger communities, undermine national security and prey on vulnerable populations, making it essential to dismantle such operations at their point of origin.

Speaking at the ‘US-India Cooperation to Counter Trafficking Threats’ conclave in Ranchi, Giles-Diaz emphasised the importance of stronger international collaboration to combat transnational crime.

“Trafficking networks inflict serious harm on societies, threaten national security and exploit vulnerable individuals. Our objective is not merely to discuss the issue but to take concrete action. Disrupting transnational criminal organisations at their source remains a key priority,” she said.

She also underlined the importance of partnership between India and the United States in tackling trafficking-related crimes.

The conclave, organised by the US Consulate General in Kolkata, brought together representatives from government agencies, law enforcement organisations, civil society groups, non-governmental organisations and academic institutions.

According to a statement issued by the consulate, participants explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation, improve intelligence-sharing mechanisms and utilise advanced technologies to identify, prevent and dismantle trafficking networks.

Experts from both countries shared best practices on modern investigative techniques, technology-driven border surveillance systems and multi-agency coordination models designed to counter organised trafficking operations more effectively.

The consulate noted that the United States has undertaken several measures to combat trafficking-linked criminal enterprises, including sanctions against more than 100 online scam operators allegedly involved in forced labour-based fraud schemes targeting victims worldwide.

It further highlighted enforcement actions by American agencies that have resulted in the seizure of nearly two million kilograms of illicit drugs and narcotic pills, aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks and cutting off their financial resources.

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The discussions at the conclave focused on enhancing cooperation between the two countries to address emerging trafficking threats and strengthen collective responses against organised transnational crime.