Kidnappings and Human Trafficking Are On the Rise in South Africa

The nation is struggling with a rise in kidnappings and human trafficking. Gauteng experienced 2,367 kidnapping incidents from October to December 2023, which is one of the many manifestations of the nation’s struggle in the area of security. The remarks by Major General Tommy Mthombeni during the crime statistics release exemplify the seriousness of the situation, with kidnappings being catalysed by motives of ransom and human trafficking. Commander Godfrey Lebeya of Hawks reminds us that human trafficking is as disastrous as the pandemics that South Africa is facing.

Cases of human trafficking have become increasingly common, with authorities discovering locations in Edenvale, Sunnyridge and Benoni where victims were held in cramped conditions. These covert operations imply a lot of problems for law enforcement, and victims are often victims of coercion and violence. Laurie Pieters-James, criminologist, emphasises the worldwide magnitude of human trafficking, estimated to be an industry worth $150 billion, with children being the most common victims.

Also read: SAPS Issues Warning of Kidnapping Threat Looming

Efforts to abolish human trafficking encompass awareness campaigns and educational programs to touch the communities and help them detect and report suspicious cases. Sex trafficking has also been raised with events such as the Bedfordview incident at which some women who had been missing were saved, and some drugs and firearms were recovered. Organisations like Home Of Hope For Girls are pivotal in fighting for women survivors and rehabilitating them in safe houses and outreach programs.

Overcoming these tricky issues demands the joint forces of the authorities and the communities to resolve the causes of the offences and lessen their effect. Addressing the issue of abductions and human trafficking becomes a top priority for South Africa if the country wants to secure its safety and prosperity.

Source: Kidnappings and human trafficking cast a shadow over SA’s security

Also read:

NGO Expresses Alarm over Alarming Child Kidnapping Statistics

Picture: Pixabay / Abel Delgado

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