An African footballer, known as S.J., who once fell victim to human trafficking, has transformed his painful past into a mission for change. After earning a specialized diploma in combating human trafficking from Dubai Police, he is now working to raise awareness and prevent others from experiencing the same fate.
S.J., once a talented young player, was deceived with the promise of a trial at a football club that could open the path to Europe. Instead, after paying for his travel, he was trapped by a trafficking network and forced into hard labor and guarding other victims. His first attempt to escape failed, leading to severe beatings, but on his second try, with the help of a compassionate individual, he managed to flee and return home.
Later, he moved to Dubai and began working with an airport security company. His employer nominated him for the diploma program, organized by the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, Dubai Police, Dubai Judicial Institute, and the United Nations. He successfully completed the course and presented research on border control methods to combat trafficking.
In his study, S.J. emphasized the importance of specialized training for border officers, inter-agency cooperation, and public awareness campaigns, while also calling for stronger medical, social, and legal support for victims. He believes that “knowledge and awareness are the strongest tools against human trafficking.”
The UAE, in 2023, reinforced its anti-trafficking laws to expand victim protection, including safe shelters, minimum fines of AED 100,000, and prison terms of at least five years for offenders.
Today, with his experience and education, S.J. is committed to helping others stay safe from the dangers of human trafficking.
