Human trafficking is a global problem affecting the most marginalized and vulnerable populations. Most of the people who are being trafficked are used for various acts which includes, criminality, various forms of slavery (cheap/child labor, prostitution, etc.)
On investigation and during the search fifty seven (57) undocumented children aged between 11 and 21 years were found in the back of a delivery truck which is without windows. Eighteen (18) of these children are girls (females) while thirty nine (39) of them are boys (males). These children were transported by the three adult occupants including the driver who are Malawian nationals. These adults could not provide a satisfactory account on the status of all the children.
The driver and his two companions were arrested for human trafficking. Further probe has revealed that all children were also Malawian Nationals. An investigation is currently underway which involves authorities and law enforcement agencies including engagements with our counterparts in Malawi. The response and cooperation of the Embassy of Malawi in this regard is appreciated.
The members of the service are applauded for the arrest and apprehension of the three suspects thereby saving the children from being abused. The issues related to how these children were able to cross the borders of our country including how they were able to reach Rustenburg is a matter of serious concern. The outcome of the investigation in finding answers to all the related questions is thus eagerly awaited.
We will continue to crack down on the transnational criminal organizations / syndicates involved in the smuggling and exploitation of migrants. We are further calling on all the community members to rally behind the police in dealing with the scourge.
Members of the public are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior in regards to alleged human trafficking for Investigation to SAPS 10111. Human trafficking is a serious human right violation and the South African Police Service will ensure that it follows up on leads which will assist in reducing such incidences.
The suspects were processed and appeared briefly at the Rustenburg Regional Magistrates’ Court this morning of Tuesday, 26 July 2016. Their case is postponed to the 13th of September 2016, they are facing 57 counts of human trafficking. These three accused persons are remanded in custody until their next appearance before court.
Furthermore, the Child Care Act 38 of 2005 takes into account the best interest of the child. Section 152 of the same act gives authority to a police office and or social worker to remove the child and place them in a safe facility, if a child is in need of care and protection.
The 57 children are in compliance with the laws of our country accommodated at a place safety (Care Center) under the auspices of the Department of Social Development in the North West Province. These centers provide support and care in line with the Child Care Act. Though our thorough investigation and information gathering it can be confirmed that the children were transported for the sole purpose of human trafficking, and our team is working around the clock to get more information on the intended destination of the children.
The South African Police Service will continue to implement the laws of our country in pursuance of a safe and secure environment for all the people in South Africa.
We remain committed through our Back to Basics Approach to realize the vision envisaged by the National Development Plan where in 2030 women and children will be walking freely in the streets of our country.
Published on South Africa Today – South Africa News
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