A local task team to combat human trafficking has been launched at Cape Town International Airport. This comes as the Western Cape intensified its fight against human trafficking with the official launch of a Local Task Team on Trafficking in Persons (TIP). The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons was also commemorated on 30 July.
This year’s theme: “Human trafficking is organised crime – End the exploitation.”
Local Task Team to Combat Human Trafficking Launched
This task team forms part of the broader Provincial Trafficking in Persons Task Team. It is a coordinated effort led by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and the National Prosecuting Authority. It has strong involvement from the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD), other provincial departments, national entities, and civil society organisations.
Strong Trafficking in Persons Task Team Coordination Key to Fighting Organised Crime
This strategic collaboration focuses on both prevention and intervention. It aims to identify trafficking victims to disrupt trafficking networks and to ensure coordinated support services. The launch also introduced a new Policy Framework for Local Task Teams at Ports of Entry. This directly supports this year’s theme: “Human trafficking is organised crime – End the exploitation.”
Transport Hubs Now Priority Anti-Trafficking Zones
With airports and harbours identified as high-risk entry and exit points, local TIP task teams will enhance surveillance, victim identification, and law enforcement efforts at these key transport nodes. Western Cape Social Development MEC Jaco Londt said in the past year alone, 11 victims accessed DSD-funded shelter services, but many more go unrecognised.
Airports and harbours are identified as high-risk entry and exit points
Londt added that these joint operations at transit points are essential. He says traffickers often exploit busy hubs like airports, bus terminals and harbours. The MEC added that strong coordination can stop these perpetrators. He says DSD-funded shelters provide not only immediate safety and care but also offer counselling and legal support. They also help with skills development. This gives victims a real chance at recovery and reintegration.
To report suspected trafficking, contact SAPS or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 0800 222 777.
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
