27-01-2025
Controversy over mysterious 'Help' signs in Los Angeles
ALBAWABA - Google Map photos showing mysterious signs written on the ground in Los Angeles, California following the wildfires have caused wide controversy on social media and divided the American community. Also Read Magic or AI-photo? Volkswagen van beats Los Angeles flames
According to Cal Fire, the blaze, which erupted in several regions of Southern California, has burned 57,403 acres as firefighters are still working to combat the Palisades Fire, Hughes Fire and Border 2 Fire.
At least 28 people were killed in the wildfires that erupted on Jan. 7 forcing dozens of thousands to flee their homes. The wildfires in Southern California are estimated to cause an economic loss of over $250 billion, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Photo of alleged "Help" signs in Los Angeles. (Google Maps/X)
A Google Map photo was posted on the X platform allegedly showing "Help" and "Traffico" signs written on the debris surrounded by shipping containers. According to social media users, the area next to this location is a shipping yard raising fears of whether this area could be used for "human trafficking".
The photo has divided netizens with some saying it could be AI-generated and it was posted only to enhance social media engagement. However, a video was also shared to back up the photo
Stable Ronaldo, Lacy, and Jason just pulled up to the location in Los Angeles where 'Help' and 'Traffico' are written in the debris and surrounded by shipping containers 😳 — FearBuck (@FearedBuck) January 26, 2025
On the other hand, some people called authorities in Los Angeles, California for a serious investigation of the photo as it could be a real issue.
A person wrote: "This looks like a desperate cry for help, possibly a human trafficking victim trying to send a message. We need to investigate this immediately and bring attention to it.
The fact that it's near a shipping yard is particularly suspicious, given the connection between human trafficking and international trade. We can't ignore this and must demand action from our authorities."
Another had a different idea and commented: "Apparently they're doing a lot of construction in that area and people, both homeless and not and small businesses are being displaced. It's mostly Hispanic people living there and many of them have lived and had businesses in the area for 30+ years and are being forced out in favour of this construction."
