30 Jul 2024

Charleshill will today host commemoration of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

Charleshill deputy district commissioner (DDC), Mr Aron Mafokate said in an interview that it was important for local communities to be sensitised on the disturbing matter.

He said it had been observed that strategic locations for human trafficking routes were at border posts.

Mr Mafokate, therefore, said the selection for Charleshill as the host was influenced by its proximity to the border. “Proximity to neighbouring countries increases the risks of trafficking activities” he emphasised.

In order to raise awareness to community members, Mr Mafokate said they had organised built up activities such as kgotla meetings, school awareness campaigns, workshop for village leadership and workshop for law enforcement officers as a way of empowering all regarding the crime.

He said in the past they witnessed human trafficking related cases in the Charleshill area and matters were handed over to law enforcement officers for further investigation.

Mr Mafokate advised the public to exercise vigilance especially on the new trend of online job advertisements and scholarships.

He underscored the importance of communities to seek guidance from office of district commissioner, police and office of the Ambassadors for credibility checks for such advertisements.

Minister of Justice, Mr Machana Shamukuni will officiate during the commemoration and US Ambassador Mr Howard Van Vranken will also be in attendance.

The commemoration is held under the theme: Leave No Child Behind in The Fight Against Human Trafficking. Ends