Dear Editor,
Simona Broomes and the Guyana Women Miners Association (GWMA) should be commended for their sustained and successful efforts to address the issue of trafficking in persons in Guyana. The organization has single-handedly rescued a number of young women and girls out of the pits of this dangerous and illicit trade. The Government of Guyana and the responsible minister continue to treat the issue of trafficking in persons as though it is a speculation, as they try to downplay the prevalence of the phenomenon. However, the GWMA has gone out and rescued several victims of this heinous trade and have highlighted the gravity of the situation in the interior regions of the country. I want to say congratulations to Ms Broomes and her organization for taking a bold and aggressive stance against those who have invested their time and resources to make women sex slaves. They must know that their actions are against all humanity, and threaten the very fabric of our nation. My hope is that the rescue of these girls and women would not stop, and that those in authority would act swiftly to make the wheels of justice turn. Charges should be brought against those involved in this shameful business and appropriate penalties be meted out to those found guilty by the courts. I would also urge that the Police Commissioner see it in his wisdom to provide police protection to Ms Broomes and the members of her team who are bravely taking on this dangerous issue. I salute the GWMA!
Yours faithfully
Lurlene Nestor
