Regional Training on Human Trafficking and Smuggling Prevention Hosted by the Ministry of National Security

The Ministry of National Security in St. Kitts and Nevis recently concluded a comprehensive five-day training course focused on preventing human trafficking and smuggling. Held from June 30th to July 4th, 2025, at the Customs and Excise Department conference room in Bird Rock, the intensive program aimed to bolster the Federation’s capacity to combat these criminal activities. Organized under the guidance of the National Security Adviser, Dr. Lionel von Frederick Rawlins, and implemented by the Anti-Human Trafficking and Border Control Task Force, the course leveraged expertise from regional organizations, with instruction provided by Lieutenant Colonel Kerry Waterman of the Regional Security System (RSS) and Ms. Joycelyn Hughes of CARICOM IMPACS. This collaborative approach underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing these transnational crimes.

The training curriculum was designed to provide participants with a multifaceted understanding of human trafficking and smuggling, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It delved into the far-reaching regional consequences of these illicit activities, particularly the trafficking of humans and the smuggling of weapons and narcotics. This regional perspective highlighted the interconnectedness of security challenges and the need for collaborative solutions. The course emphasized the identification of early warning signs and victim profiles, equipping participants with the ability to recognize potential trafficking or smuggling situations. Practical guidance was provided on established protocols for first responders, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to identified cases. In addition, the training explored preventive measures and intervention strategies to disrupt these criminal networks and protect vulnerable individuals. The importance of interagency cooperation and support mechanisms for exploited persons was also underscored, fostering a collaborative approach to victim assistance and recovery.

A diverse group of fifty officers and officials from various sectors participated in the training program, reflecting the government’s commitment to a whole-of-society approach to combating human trafficking and smuggling. Representatives from law enforcement agencies, including the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) and the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, joined personnel from Customs & Excise, Immigration, Probation and Child Welfare Services, and the St. Kitts and Nevis Prison Service. The inclusion of members from the Anti-Human Trafficking and Border Control Task Force ensured continuity and alignment with national strategies. Notably, the course also included private security professionals for the first time, recognizing their increasing role in the nation’s multi-layered security framework and their potential to contribute to front-line deterrence efforts.

This inclusion of private security personnel signifies a significant development in the Federation’s approach to security. It acknowledges the expanding presence and capabilities of the private security sector and its potential to act as a valuable partner in safeguarding national borders and communities. By incorporating private security professionals into the training, the government aims to enhance information sharing, improve coordination, and extend the reach of anti-trafficking and anti-smuggling initiatives. This collaborative approach will contribute to a more robust and comprehensive security architecture.

The course culminated in the awarding of professional certificates to all participants, signifying their enhanced competence in detecting, preventing, and responding to incidents of human trafficking and smuggling. This certification not only recognizes their individual achievements but also serves as a testament to the strengthened capacity of the Federation to address these complex challenges. The certificates symbolize a commitment to upholding international standards and best practices in combating these crimes, ultimately contributing to the creation of a safer and more secure environment for all citizens and residents.

The Ministry of National Security expressed its deep appreciation to Dr. Rawlins, the RSS, and CARICOM IMPACS for their continued support and collaboration in fortifying the Federation’s resilience against human trafficking and smuggling. This partnership reflects the shared commitment of regional stakeholders to address these transnational crimes effectively. By pooling resources, expertise, and intelligence, these organizations are contributing to a stronger regional response and fostering greater cooperation in the fight against these illicit activities. The Ministry’s acknowledgement of these partners emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration and the collective effort required to create a safer Caribbean.