MEC warns of a silent human trafficking crisis in the Western Cape

WHILE 11 survivors of human trafficking received support through shelters funded by the Western Cape Department of Social Development during the 2024/25 financial year, Social Development MEC Jaco Londt stressed that official figures did not reflect the true scale of the problem.

“These are just the reported cases – the tip of the iceberg,” he said. “Trafficking thrives where people are unaware of the risks and warning signs. Awareness is our first line of defence.”

Londt warned that the province may be facing a silent crisis of human trafficking, with many victims still “unseen, unheard and in need of rescue”.

He was speaking at a Human Trafficking Conference held in Moorreesburg, hosted by the West Coast District Municipality (WCDM).

The event, themed “Global Crisis, Local Action: A Community United Against Trafficking”, brought together law enforcement agencies, justice officials, community leaders and human rights organisations to strengthen local responses to the scourge.

Londt said social workers in the province were participating in joint operations with police and prosecutors to protect victims and dismantle trafficking networks.

“This reality compels us to act with greater urgency. Events like today’s conference are vital to combat this crime and protect more victims. I extend my appreciation to the West Coast District Municipality for creating this platform and bringing together key stakeholders to address trafficking.”

WCDM Manager for Social and Community Development Melonice Blanckenberg opened the conference with a strong message about grassroots involvement. She said the fight against trafficking “requires unity, vigilance and cooperation across all sectors”.

Deputy Executive Mayor of WCDM, Ald Sandra Crafford, reiterated the municipality’s commitment to fighting trafficking, saying: “This risk within our communities can only be addressed through collaborative efforts.”

A sobering moment came from Advocate Zelda Swanepoel, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, who referenced the high-profile Joshlin Smith case, which exposed the brutal reality of trafficking in local communities. Her remarks highlighted the emotional trauma experienced by child victims and the complex legal challenges in securing convictions.

As part of its ongoing safety efforts, the municipality announced plans to develop a District Action Plan on Human Trafficking aimed at raising awareness and improving prevention and reporting systems.

The plan will be circulated to relevant departments and stakeholders for input and implementation.

The municipality said the initiative forms part of its Community and Rural Safety Plan and will prioritise outreach in rural towns, where traffickers often exploit poverty, unemployment and lack of information.

Cape Times