Ever present danger of human trafficking

It is estimated that 155 000 is the number of people who are living in modern slavery.

André Jordaan was the speaker of the evening.

Human trafficking is real and it is happening right under your nose.

Some shocking figures and discoveries were revealed at the anti-human trafficking event held at the Ora Bella Restaurant on March 31.

“The goal was to educate the public and to create awareness on this important subject,” said Chantal Tewitz, who organised the event.

Guest speaker André Jordaan, author of Shielding Relatives, said human trafficking is the trade of humans for the purpose of forced labour or sexual slavery.

“The trading of human organs and child marriage is also on the rise. Today, more than 50 per cent of the population is vulnerable to modern slavery,” said Jordaan.

“Traffickers can recruit victims through social media and fake job opportunities such as fake modelling and soccer contracts among others. Men can also be targeted.”

He said it is very important for parents to be aware of the dangers of social media.

“Teachers and learners should also be on the lookout for any suspicious activities at school. Be aware of the sex offender register, as children are often targeted.”

Cindy Griffiths, Lee-Ann Griffiths and Tamera Olsen attended the event to learn more about human trafficking.

The idea of writing a book started five years ago after Jordaan realised that many people aren’t informed about what is happening in their immediate environment.

Having done extensive work in forensics and security, Jordaan’s path led him to study social media and human trafficking and the dangers involved in both.

“Losing a child to crime or human trafficking is very different from losing a child to a terminal illness, for example,” said Jordaan.

Also speaking at the event was a victim of human trafficking, who wishes to remain anonymous for safety reasons.

“I applied for a job and they made it sound like a dream come true. It turned out to be a nightmare. I was trapped for six months. They fed me drugs, raped me repeatedly and broke me emotionally and mentally,” said the victim.

“They even threatened me. I was lucky to escape and I’m still recovering every day.”

“Anti-human trafficking organisations like the A21 works to fight human trafficking. Human trafficking can be only stopped if people become aware of the problem,” said Jordaan.