Kota Kinabalu: Kapayan Assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang strongly condemned the recent human trafficking case in Keningau, involving the exploitation of four young girls, including underage victims.
Jannie expressed her outrage and called for a comprehensive and thorough investigation to dismantle the entire trafficking network.
“I am deeply appalled by this heinous crime that betrays the dignity and future of our children,” Lasimbang stated…The swift action by the police to rescue the victims is commendable, but it is only the first step. Justice demands that we go further.”Jannie raised concerns about the focus on an 18-year-old girl as the primary suspect, suggesting she may herself be a victim of manipulation by more powerful individuals.
“We must probe deeper to uncover the real masterminds who are controlling, profiting from, and exploiting these children,” she urged.
The Assemblywoman also emphasized the need to hold those who purchase sex from minors accountable.
“These individuals are not ‘customers’; they are perpetrators of statutory rape who trade in the dignity of children. They must face the full force of the law,” she said adding the need for further called for accountability of premises that enable such crimes, asserting that exploitation does not occur in isolation.
Jannie stressed the importance of a holistic approach that goes beyond punishment and ensures long-term protection for survivors.
“These girls are entitled to comprehensive trauma care, education, psychological support, and pathways to rebuild their lives without stigma,” she stated.
“Rescuing their bodies is not enough; we must heal their minds and emotions. Anything less is a societal failure.”She concluded with a call to action, urging authorities to pursue investigations to the root of the trafficking network and bring all involved, from masterminds to buyers, to justice.
“This case must serve as a harsh reminder that human trafficking is happening in our communities. As a mother, a woman, and a legislator, I will not remain silent. We must dismantle the entire machinery of human trafficking.”
Jannie expressed her outrage and called for a comprehensive and thorough investigation to dismantle the entire trafficking network.
“I am deeply appalled by this heinous crime that betrays the dignity and future of our children,” Lasimbang stated…The swift action by the police to rescue the victims is commendable, but it is only the first step. Justice demands that we go further.”Jannie raised concerns about the focus on an 18-year-old girl as the primary suspect, suggesting she may herself be a victim of manipulation by more powerful individuals.
“We must probe deeper to uncover the real masterminds who are controlling, profiting from, and exploiting these children,” she urged.
The Assemblywoman also emphasized the need to hold those who purchase sex from minors accountable.
“These individuals are not ‘customers’; they are perpetrators of statutory rape who trade in the dignity of children. They must face the full force of the law,” she said adding the need for further called for accountability of premises that enable such crimes, asserting that exploitation does not occur in isolation.
Jannie stressed the importance of a holistic approach that goes beyond punishment and ensures long-term protection for survivors.
“These girls are entitled to comprehensive trauma care, education, psychological support, and pathways to rebuild their lives without stigma,” she stated.
“Rescuing their bodies is not enough; we must heal their minds and emotions. Anything less is a societal failure.”She concluded with a call to action, urging authorities to pursue investigations to the root of the trafficking network and bring all involved, from masterminds to buyers, to justice.
“This case must serve as a harsh reminder that human trafficking is happening in our communities. As a mother, a woman, and a legislator, I will not remain silent. We must dismantle the entire machinery of human trafficking.”
