By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Matours Bus Company has vehemently denied any involvement in a recent human trafficking scandal allegedly linked to the bus line.

The allegations surfaced following a documentary published by The Carte Blanche, in which an undercover journalist recorded an individual at Matours’ Johannesburg office agreeing to facilitate the illegal travel of a 6-year-old girl from Malawi to South Africa.

Bright Kampaundi, Communications Associate of Matours, spoke with The Maravi Post and refuted the allegations, stating that the individual in question was not a full-fledged employee of the bus company but rather a hired travel agent.

Kampaundi emphasized that Matours has strict policies and protocols in place to prevent any involvement in illegal activities such as human trafficking.

The undercover journalist, posing as a human trafficker, reportedly offered R5500 to the individual at Matours’ office to enable the travel of the young girl without a passport.

Despite the apparent agreement caught on camera, Matours maintains that their employee acted independently and without the knowledge or approval of the company.

The alleged deal, believed to be worth over MK 500,000, has raised concerns about the prevalence of human trafficking in the region.

The Malawian government has since launched an investigation into the matter, working closely with South African authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the young girl in question.

Matours Bus Company has assured the public that they are cooperating fully with the authorities and conducting an internal investigation to determine the extent of the individual’s involvement in the alleged human trafficking scheme.

The company remains committed to upholding ethical business practices and ensuring the safety of their passengers.

As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how Matours Bus Company will address these serious allegations and what steps they will take to prevent any similar incidents in the future.