AROUND 155 000 people in South Africa are currently victims of modern slavery, which includes human trafficking. For many, the idea of human trafficking is something foreign, something that only happens in other communities and cities, but for the community of Wentworth it has been an unspoken reality.

Also read: World Day against Trafficking in Persons – Open Door shares insight on human trafficking

Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo, spokesperson for the Hawks, confirmed to The SUN that they are investigating a case and serious complaints of human trafficking in the Durban South area. The case was opened at the Wentworth police station.

“There is one docket for Human Trafficking at Wentworth SAPS and an enquiry at DPCI-Durban EPR for human trafficking. The enquiry is dealing with multiple complaints of suspected Human Trafficking,” said Mhlongo.

Who is being targeted?

He added that a current trend shows that young, coloured men, aged between 19 to 26, from Wentworth are being targeted. These men are usually known to the recruiters in the area and the communication is done via WhatsApp mainly.

Warning signs for human trafficking:

• Job offers that require no experience but promise high pay
• Requests for interviews via WhatsApp or social media only
• Pressure to leave quickly without contracts or written details
• No clear information about accommodation, employers, or work location
• No requests for “processing” or “travel” fees
• Discouraging young people from involving parents or guardians

Once someone is taken, they quickly lose control of their life. Their communication with their family is limited or they are denied the chance to speak with them, their passports are taken when they get to another country, and many are forced to work, exploited or are abused.

Also read: Two men held for kidnapping Clairwood businessman

A family’s traumatic journey:

For one family in Wentworth, the news of human trafficking is not just a warning, it is something they deal with emotionally every day.

“We smile on the outside but are screaming on the inside with every passing day.” These are the words of a family member of a victim of human trafficking. “We cannot cope sometimes during the day; it is very hard because now you are putting up this pretence and have to act like everything is alright.”

The Wentworth victims were last seen almost three months ago after someone tried to sell them the dream life of living abroad and living lavishly.

“These are males known by the community and the victims, they would be in and out of the countries, portraying the rich and dream life all over their social media. They would then offer people in the community the chance to live the life that they have. The people in our community are desperate for a stable job that could bring in a steady income, so they fall into their trap,” said the family member.

The family member of the victim said that they have contacted the victim, however it is very evident that they are being watched, and their phones tapped.

How to stay safe?

Mhlongo is urging people in the community to be careful and follow these tips:

• Do not allow young people to travel for work without verified documentation.
• Always confirm companies through official government or labour platforms.
• Never hand over ID documents or passports to unknown recruiters.
• Report suspicious recruitment activity immediately.
• Talk openly with young people about these dangers.
• We call on parents, schools, faith leaders, community organisations and authorities to work together to strengthen awareness, reporting systems and protection mechanisms.

Support lines:

If you suspect trafficking activity or recruitment attempts, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline on 0800 222 777 or contact the local police station.

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