Police create awareness on human trafficking

VICTIMS of human trafficking are of all genders, ages, races, countries, religious believers and socio-economic statuses. A brochure campaign held by SAPS Brighton Beach recently placed the spotlight on the topic.

According to the communications officer at Brighton Beach, Captain Louise le Roux, human trafficking exists because people are vulnerable to exploitation.

“Some of the cause for the trafficking in persons may include; abduction, falsified immigrations, poverty, unemployment, homelessness, war, natural disasters, demand for cheap labour, civil unrest, lack of access to employment, family disruption or dysfunction and economic disruption,” she said.

The South African Anti-Human Trafficking Legislation was signed into law on 29 July, 2013, and is called the Prevention and Combatting of Trafficking in Persons Bill (PCTPB).

The brochure researched and created by the captain also explained some categories of human trafficking which include sexual exploitation, forced labour, debt-bondage, domestic servitude, organ harvesting and child exploitation.

“It is imperative that we educate ourselves and others on matters relating to human trafficking. Learn the facts by researching the topic. Share what you have learned and speak up, also join a movement and become an active participant in the fight against human trafficking,” she said.

Le Roux expressed her appreciation towards the management and tenants of the Bluff Towers Mall for affording the SAPS a platform to host this public awareness and education initiative.

She also acknowledge the members who deployed with her on the foot beat operation during the campaign, W/O Theo van Noordwyk, Sergeant Siphumelelo Phungula and Sergeant Emmanual Sabelo.

If you suspect that someone is being trafficked or are aware of someone who is in the business of the trafficking persons report it to your local police station’s Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS).

*The Human Trafficking Resources Line 080-022-2777 or email stoptrafficking@saps.gpv.za.

*Childline KZN on 123 Percy Osborne Road, Windermere, Berea 031-312-9092 or 080-005-5555.

*The Salvation Army on 37 Cleaver Road, Berea, Durban, KZN 031-202-2181.

*A21 Campaign Unit S04, The Forum, Northbank Lance Century City, 7441 021-551-0971 or email infosa@21.org.

*National Freedom Network (NFN) 080-022-2777 or email info@nationalfreedomnetwork.co.za.

*CrimeStop 086-010-111, www.crimeline.co.za or the SMS hotline 32211.  

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