KZN family grapples with aftermath of human trafficking ordeal
After eight months of fear, a Wentworth family has a loved one home, but the trauma of his ordeal will take time to overcome.
A traumatised young man from Wentworth, KZN, has returned home after being lured to Cambodia under false pretences.
For eight months, his family endured constant fear and anxiety after he was promised a dream life overseas, reports Southlands Sun.
Traumatic ordeal
Although the family, who asked not to be named, celebrated his return with tears of joy, he arrived back broken and unable to speak about his experience.
His family said the ordeal has left psychological scars and that it will take some time for him to deal with his emotional pain.
A recent Amnesty International report found that despite Cambodia’s much-publicised crackdown on human trafficking, most identified scam compounds remained untouched, with victims continuing to face abuse and police collusion.
Deceptive recruitment
The family explained that the victim was deceived by someone he had known for a long time.
They say recruiters often portray a luxurious lifestyle on social media to exploit community members desperate for steady employment. Human trafficking does not discriminate, and anyone can fall victim to these recruitment networks.
Hawks investigation
Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo said the current trend targets coloured men aged 19 to 26 via WhatsApp.
Mhlongo confirmed police are investigating a human trafficking docket at Wentworth Police Station, while the Hawks are investigating multiple complaints.
“Trafficking networks operate through deception. Once a young person is taken, communication is restricted, IDs are confiscated and victims are placed in situations of forced labour, exploitation and abuse. Many families only realise something is wrong when it is already too late,” said Mhlongo.
While the family celebrates his return, they remain focused on his recovery.
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