Human Trafficking on the rise, says deputy DOJ minister
'Trafficking in persons remains a serious human rights violation and a growing concern in South Africa,' said the DOJ.
According to the department, South Africa has experienced ongoing cases involving sexual exploitation, forced labour and other forms of abuse. The human trafficking syndicates often target vulnerable groups such as women and children.
This year's conference has been themed 'Human Trafficking is Organised Crime – End the Exploitation'. The DOJ met with stakeholders and anti-trafficking organisations. Together, they discussed solutions to combat the crime that is increasing in statistics.
The DOJ said a possible solution for tackling human trafficking is to strengthen resources at airports and harbours. As a result, the department has launched Local Task Team Offices. They believe the offices will assist with intercepting the syndicates and providing support to the victims.
'This initiative, in partnership with the Western Cape Provincial Task Team, is aimed at enhancing coordination and oversight among all relevant stakeholders,' said DOJ.
In March this year, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation rescued 23 South Africans from Myanmar. According to DIRCO, the SA citizens formed part of 7000 individuals from various countries, that had been lured to the Kingdom of Thailand after coming across an employment agency on social media.
'These adverts promised the victims good salaries, free accommodation, comprehensive travel expenses and other lucrative benefits,' said DIRCO.
However once they got to Thailand, they were transported to Myanmar against their will and none of the jobs they were promised materialised. DIRCO has since urged citizens to be more cautious of who they choose to trust.
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