Facts on Human Trafficking by ACT Africa
Crimes related to Human Trafficking and Gender-Based Violence has been trending and created quite a hype.
Whilst it is true that there is an increase in these atrocities, we must be careful not to sensationalize and to stick to the facts and only report on that.
What is Human Trafficking
The Act (What is done)
Recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons
The Means (How it is done)
Threat or use of force, coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power or vulnerability, or giving payments or benefits to a person in control of the victim
The Purpose (Why it is done)
How to Protect Yourself from Human Trafficking
- Be Vigilant of Your Surroundings
- Avoid Walking Alone
- Act Swiftly If Suspicious
- Don’t Trust Easily
- Use Social Media Wisely
For the purpose of exploitation, which includes exploiting the prostitution of others, sexual exploitation, forced labour, slavery or similar practices and the removal of organs.
To ascertain whether a particular circumstance constitutes trafficking in persons, consider the definition of trafficking in the Trafficking in Persons Protocol and the constituent elements of the offence, as defined by relevant domestic legislation.
Human Trafficking Statistics for South Africa on cases reported from July 2020 to mid-September 2020 to the National Human Trafficking Resource Line 0800222777. This excludes cases reported directly to SAPS
- Be Ready For Anything
Carry pepper spray with you on your key-chain. You also need to mentally prepare yourself to fight off the abductor. If you begin to be attacked, make a scene, yell for help, and fight back as your life depends on it (because it probably does)
- Use Your Phone
Allow 3 of your closest friends or family members to track your phone via GPS so they know your whereabouts at all times. You can do with on most cell phones and allow a select few to have access to your location for 1 hour, 1 day, or indefinitely.
- Trust Your Instincts
- Meet Strangers In Public Places
- Seek Help From Reliable Organizations
Traffickers also prey on young people who run away from home. If you’re having trouble at home, instead of running away and putting yourself at risk of being kidnapped or lured into dangerous, life-threatening situations by traffickers, rather seek help.
You can seek counselling by calling Childline on 0800 055 555 or the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) on 0800 12 13 14
To support ACT Africa and or how you can make a difference go to www.actafrica.org.za or email info@actafrica.org.za
To donate go to https://www.payfast.co.za/donate/go/awarenessforchildtraffickingafricaactafrica
Written by Hilary Leong (Co-Founder/Chairperson)