Truckers face massive fines for human trafficking violations

Transport companies have been advised to develop an anti-trafficking policy that prohibits employees from using the company’s services, work time or vehicles to facilitate or aid in human trafficking. According to Lt Colonel Liezel van der Merwe of the Hawks, the business of human trafficking frequently requires travel or transport. “The type of transport service used depends on the specifics of the business – how secretive or clandestine transactions are likely to be or whether there is a large number of people to be moved at once,” she told delegates at the recent Transport Forum in Cape Town. She said sex trafficking could be present at formal as well as informal truck stops due to the remote locations and the maledominant customer base that used the facilities. Trucks or buses were the preferred transport mode because of the low cost and also the limited interaction with bureaucratic systems – and it was therefore critical for these businesses to have a formal employee policy, she added.

“This is not only a smart move for a company’s risk management and reputation concerns, but sends a clear message that the company will not stand idly by while bad ambassadors of their brands are contributing to modern slavery.” It was also essential, said Van der Merwe, to educate and train staff on what to look for. “Awareness and education is the first step in eradicating this crime. Incorporate training into your company’s existing policies and procedures. Employees can then better understand the issue, learn basic indicators of instances of human trafficking and see how to take appropriate action to protect victims and assist law enforcement,” she said. According to Standard

Bank transport industry and asset risk specialist Kathy Bell, the penalty for any operator found guilty of not reporting  suspicious behaviour is R100 million. “It is extremely important that carriers understand the dire consequences of not reporting suspicious behaviour and also training their teams to be aware of the consequences if they are found in dubious situations.” It’s essential to educate and train staff on what to look for. – Lt Colonel Liezel      van der Merwe