The Philippine National Police (PNP on Saturday announced it had ordered the deployment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to support government efforts for the repatriation of Filipinos affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to organize the team to assist lead agencies in ensuring the safe and orderly return of affected overseas Filipinos in the area.
The team will work with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in conducting interviews and screenings of returning overseas Filipino workers to identify possible victims of illegal recruitment or human trafficking.
Authorities said the effort will also focus on gathering evidence against individuals who may have exploited Filipino workers abroad.
The initiative forms part of the PNP’s broader effort to strengthen coordination with partner agencies in protecting vulnerable Filipinos.
“We will make sure that those responsible for illegal recruitment and human trafficking will be investigated and held accountable,” Nartatez said.
The PNP is also coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to monitor developments in the region and assist ongoing government operations.
