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Defence Ministry clearance a must for male applicants to Russia: New move to stop illegal trafficking to war zone
View(s):By Hafsa Sabry
In response to mounting concerns over potential human trafficking into the conflict zones of Russia and Ukraine, Sri Lankan authorities have announced plans for stricter travel regulations.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya announced the new measures, at a joint news conference with the Russian Ambassador, stating that all male travellers bound for Russia will now require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Defence Ministry, to deter illicit activities.
“We need to immediately stop people leaving for Russia, believing the false promises of alleged human trafficking agencies,” the state minister emphasised.
At the joint news conference: Russian Ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan and State Minister Tharaka Balasuriya. Pic by Indika Handuwala
The legal counsellor of the Russian embassy in Sri Lanka shed light on the challenges in detecting and preventing such activities. Despite rigorous interview processes for visa applicants, individuals have managed to conceal their intentions to join the conflict, complicating efforts to intervene effectively.
Each applicant for a Russian visit visa undergo comprehensive individual interviews to ascertain their intentions and potential threat to national security. However, individuals have adeptly passed these interviews without disclosing any affiliations to the conflict or military activities.
The Russian ambassador to Sri Lanka Levan S. Dzhagaryan acknowledged the influx of tourist visa applications and affirmed the country’s commitment to screening out potential threats. Nevertheless, in light of recent developments, the visa approval process will undergo further tightening.
Police reported the arrest of a retired Major General and his wife in connection with trafficking-related activities. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has apprehended nine individuals so far.
Major Sandun Gunawardane, Legal Officer for The Human Trafficking Task Force reassured of their robust efforts in combating trafficking. While formal charges have yet to be filed on any individual, multiple arrests have been made, and stringent penalties await those found guilty, he said.
“We have a very strong team, including experienced and senior members, and we are working hard to apprehend the racketeers who have smuggled these people to the Russian war front,” he said.
Major Gunawardane disclosed receiving 455 distress calls from families of individuals who left for Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, 16 individuals have gone missing without contact, with the exact casualty count remaining uncertain.
Furthermore, discussions are underway regarding the repatriation of 37 injured from the conflict zones. Minister Balasuriya expressed concern over reports of individuals being coerced into combat without receiving promised compensation.
In response to the escalating crisis, a high-level delegation is scheduled to visit Russia early this month. Led by officials from the Foreign and Defence Ministries, the delegation aims to facilitate the safe return of Sri Lankan nationals and address the trafficking problem.
The Russian ambassador affirmed collaborative efforts with Sri Lankan authorities and the Defence Ministry to resolve the crisis promptly while maintaining bilateral relations. Discussions between defence ministry officials and their Russian counterparts are ongoing.
“However, if individuals have willingly joined the war as mercenaries, there is nothing we can do about it as it is their wish,” clarified the Russian Ambassador. “But if they are there unwillingly, they will be assisted.”
Defence Ministry Spokesman Colonel Nalin Herath stated that the President has urged them to look into this matter and bring the soldiers back as soon as possible. “We are very keen to deliver on this task at the earliest opportunity,” he said.
However, the families of the ex-military personals who have left the country in March say some of them have lost contact with their family members.
The sister of one of the soldiers who was smuggled to Russia has spoken out, highlighting the perilous situation many face. She expressed concern that numerous individuals continue to travel to Russia under tourist visas, hoping for a brighter future, only to tragically lose their lives. She urged relevant officials to intervene and put an end to this dangerous trend.
“The government should intervene immediately,” she said.
Amidst these efforts, the families of the soldiers remain uncertain and anxious, grappling with the financial, mental, and physical exhaustion that accompanies the fight to bring their loved ones back home.
They said: “We can only hope that the government will bring them back alive”.
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