Beware of human trafficking – warns Hillcrest police

IN keeping with Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Hillcrest SAPS communications officer, Capt Linzi Smith has once again warned the public to not become victims.

“The community, students, learners and parents should be aware of the dangers of trusting strangers who offer them lifts; offer them fast paying jobs or free scholarships. People need to guard themselves and know that if it seems too good to be true, it’s because most often they are,” said Smith.

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According to Smith, often, people who are involved in human trafficking, lure young girls and boys with money and then send them off to other countries where they become slaves of cheap labour or get involved in forced prostitution and drugs.

“Youngsters need to be careful of befriending strangers on social media.”

“With modern technology today, criminals can hide behind any false identity and can meet you in the safety of your bedroom, behind a screen on the computer on Facebook or Skype.”

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“Sometimes these underground human trafficking syndicates hide behind false identity profiles with fake photographs. Never meet a stranger from the internet alone, as most often it is dangerous and can put oneself in a very vulnerable situation and can result in one being kidnapped for human trafficking purposes,” she warned.

She advised the public to seek advice and do proper research before accepting any offers that seem too good to be true. 

“Another way of luring people is via responding to adverts for lift clubs and roommates. Never go alone. Always go in a group,” said Smith.

She encouraged the community to work hand in hand with police in combating the increase in this crime.

“Learners should not fall into the trap of peer pressure and being bullied into doing unlawful criminal activities,” added Smith.

Any suspicious activity or possible human trafficking cases should be reported and can be investigated. The Crime Stop tip-off number is 08600 10111.

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