Human Trafficking on the Rise in Angola: Mafia-Style Groups Exploit Vulnerable Populations

Luanda, Angola - A growing concern has emerged in Angola over the increasing presence of mafia-style groups involved in human trafficking, particularly through collaboration with Angolan nationals. These criminal organizations have been able to thrive due to weak law enforcement and corruption.

Mafia-Style Groups Thrive in Urban Centers

According to sources, these gangs operate in urban centers, including Luanda, where they engage in a range of criminal activities, from drug trafficking to firearms smuggling. The absence of extortion activities suggests that the groups do not yet have complete control over their territories.

Government Efforts Under Scrutiny

The Angolan government has taken steps to dismantle multiple small mafia-style groups in recent years, but the nature of these organizations and their involvement in criminal markets remains unclear. Meanwhile, the country’s judiciary continues to struggle with corruption and a lack of resources, making it difficult for victims of human trafficking to access justice.

Challenges Facing the Judiciary

• Corruption and executive interference hinder efforts to combat organized crime
• Lack of transparency and accountability in government efforts to combat corruption
• Prisons are overcrowded, and many inmates are denied basic human rights

Economic Challenges

Angola’s economy faces substantial challenges, including:

• Poor land and property rights
• High levels of institutionalized corruption
• Lack of oversight measures

Regulatory Systems and Money Laundering

• The country’s regulatory systems do not meet international standards, making it difficult for businesses to operate effectively
• Despite efforts to tackle money laundering, the government’s capacity to combat this crime remains limited
• The diamond industry continues to attract international investors, but is vulnerable to corruption and smuggling

Civil Society Concerns

Human trafficking victims continue to face inadequate support from the government, which has neither the resources nor the staff to investigate claims of trafficking. The few legal frameworks in place for victim support are often ineffective due to limited financial resources.

Challenges Facing Civil Society Organizations

• Physical persecution and intimidation by the government
• Limited freedom of press, with criminal defamation laws and cyber-attacks used to censor journalists
• Government’s commitment to raising public awareness about cyber-attacks and organized crime is a positive step, but more needs to be done to support victims of human trafficking.

Conclusion

As concerns about human trafficking and organized crime continue to grow in Angola, it is clear that more needs to be done to address these issues effectively. The Angolan government must prioritize transparency, accountability, and support for victims of human trafficking if it hopes to make meaningful progress in combating this serious problem.