Police urge public to help end child labour
The Hawks have urged communities to act against child labour, calling it a crime that robs children of safety, education, and their future. Authorities warn it’s often hidden in plain sight and linked to trafficking.
The police are making a direct appeal to communities, urging immediate action against child labour.
Often hidden in plain sight, child labour is not just an injustice; it is a serious offence closely linked to human trafficking. It robs children of their right to a safe, nurturing environment and, crucially, an education.
Specialised police unit The Hawks continue to warn that child labour strips children of their most basic rights: a home, safety from harm and access to schooling.
“It’s a crime to exploit children for cheap labour when they should be in school. Children deserve full protection from abuse, trafficking and exploitation,” the unit said in a statement.
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“South African laws, including the Children’s Act and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, clearly state that employing anyone under the age of 15 is illegal,” the statement read.
Parents must consult the Department of Labour for the necessary permits to ensure their child’s education and well-being remain protected if a child earns money through performance work, such as acting or singing.
“Simply put, children belong in classrooms, building a future, not toiling in environments unfit for their age,” the Hawks said.
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This includes work on farms, in factories, mines, taxis, as domestic workers or even as shepherds.
“If you witness this happening, you must speak up.”
To report child labour, contact your nearest police station, the Department of Labour and Employment or the Department of Social Development. Taking action can mean the difference between a stolen future and one filled with opportunity.
