Need for tougher action against illegal sex trade

I was impressed by the report “Human trafficking ‘a concern for every country’” (April 5).

As someone who has been researching and investigating the incidence of human trafficking in the area, I can corroborate the facts reported by the writer. Tata’s story is by no means singular; it is widespread.

What is baffling is the openness with which human traffickers appear to operate in Singapore when, in many other countries, their activities tend to be much more hidden. It begs the question of why law enforcement has not effectively addressed the problem.

To make matters more complicated, many girls who are tricked or coerced into coming to Singapore for purportedly legitimate jobs have their passports taken away once they cross the border. Later, they may be arrested during police raids, but end up being released within a day or two with a temporary pass that does not allow them to work in Singapore.

Being sent back to the streets — instead of being allowed to return home — without any means to support themselves means they will become victims of other pimps. Their plight can be seen all over Geylang, as they stand openly on the streets soliciting, with pimps who seem to have nothing to fear.

The US State Department has repeatedly accused Singapore of not doing enough to prevent human trafficking. We are not too far from a solution. The Government can continue to allow legal brothels to operate, while stepping up efforts to clear the streets of pimps. I am sure the residents in those areas will be grateful and Singapore’s image in the eyes of tourists who stay in hotels there will improve.