Human trafficking: 'It can happen to anyone, at any time, at any place' – Missing Children South Africa
Between 1 October 2024 and 31 December 2024, 188 children were reported missing in South Africa.
Stuffed Animal, abandoned teddy bear / Pixabay: Topolinskimm 6083857 1280
CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit interviews criminologist and National Coordinator for Missing Children South Africa, Bianca van Aswegen.
Listen below:
In a written response to a question from EFF's Mbali Dlamini, Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu revealed that between 1 October 2024 and 31 December 2024, 188 children were reported missing in South Africa.
Of these, 102 were found, while 86 cases remain under investigation.
Van Aswegen attributes these figures to an increase in kidnappings, human trafficking, and children running away from abusive homes.
She also points out a concerning rise in families selling their children into human trafficking, due to poverty and other factors.
Van Aswegen emphasises that every missing child, regardless of the circumstances, should receive the same level of attention and thorough investigation.
She underscores the importance of enhancing safety measures for children, who are the most vulnerable members of society.
"It [trafficking] can happen to anyone, at any time, at any place."
- Bianca van Aswegen, Criminologist and National Coordinator – Missing Children South Africa
According to Van Aswegen, a missing persons case is never considered closed until the person or their remains are found.
She says that Missing Children South Africa remains committed to investigating cases, no matter how cold they become.
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.