Don’t be a victim of human trafficking – warns SAPS
Capt Linzi Smith advised the community, especially young people, to do proper research before accepting any offers that seem too good to be true.
HILLCREST police has warned people to be aware of the dangers of trusting strangers who offer them lifts, fast paying jobs or free scholarships.
Hillcrest SAPS communication officer, Capt Linzi Smith said people need to be warned and know that if it seems too good to be true, it’s because most often it is.
“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.”
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Smith said youngsters need to be careful of befriending strangers on social media. “With modern technology today, the criminal 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.
“Sometimes these underground human trafficking syndicates most often 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,” said Smith.
She advised young girls to seek advice and do proper research before accepting any offers that seem too good to be true and to ensure the offers are legit.
Smith also encouraged the community to work hand in hand with the 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,” she added.
Any suspicious activity or person you suspect that could possibly be involved in human trafficking should be reported and can be investigated. Call the the Crime Stop tip off number on 08600 10111.
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