Abu Dhabi, 19 April 2012 (WAM) - The UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children, Joy Ngozi Ezeilo has commended UAE's role in combating human trafficking and trans-national crimes.

In a statement made at the end of her visit to the UAE, Ezeilo said the UAE was among the firs countries to realize the magnitude of tragedy the victims of such crime undergo.

Visiting Ewa'a Shelter for Women and Children in Sharjah, she said setting up of such centres was a "step forward" in providing protection and care to the victims.

"The services offered to the victims (at the Ewa'a centres) provide them with opportunities to improve their conditions and to re-invigorate them to overcome their agonies," she added.

Ezeilo said the human trafficking crimes are mainly rife in the least developed countries due to wars, crises, disasters and poverty.

WAM/MAB