DSD welcomes launch of Local Trafficking in Persons Task Team
On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed annually on 30 July, a Local Task Team on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) was launched at the Cape Town International Airport.
The Western Cape Department of Social Development is part of the Provincial Trafficking in Persons Task Team, led by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and National Prosecuting Authority. This team – consisting of other Western Cape Government departments, civil society, and national entities – coordinates prevention and intervention efforts to safeguard trafficking victims and curb this issue.
There are different types of trafficking, of which the most prevalent is: forced labour, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation.
The launch of the Local Task Team and a Policy Framework for local task teams for ports of entry, speaks to this year’s theme for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which is “Human trafficking is organized crime – End the exploitation.”
Local task teams will operate from airports and harbours, strengthening coordination and oversight efforts to prevent trafficking, identify and apprehend suspected traffickers, and assist victims.
Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt said, “During the 2024/2025 financial year, 11 trafficking victims accessed support services at DSD-funded shelters across the province. But there are so many more individuals in need of assistance. Most victims will go unnoticed unless someone sees something and reports it. This is why joint operations and coordinated efforts like the Provincial TIP Task Team, and now the local airport task team are so crucial. Transport hubs like bus terminals, harbours and airports are hotspots for trafficking activities. By working together, we can do so much more to raise awareness about this crime and how victims can be identified and access help.”
DSD-funded shelters provide a safe space where basic needs are met, as well as providing practical support, counselling, and skills development.
Contacts for anyone seeking help:
South African National Human Trafficking Resource Line: 0800 222 777
South African Human Rights Commission: 011 877 3600
South African Police Service: 08600 10111
DSD toll-free number: 0800 220 250
Media Enquiries
Monique Mortlock-Malgas
Media Liaison Officer to Minister Jaco Londt
Department of Social Development
Email: Monique.Mortlock@westerncape.gov.za