Saskatchewan RCMP are sharing their concerns about human traffic noting that it happens in cities and rural areas.
“Everyone needs to recognize the signs of human trafficking and report suspected trafficking to police immediately.”
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU) is the agency that works to stop groups involved in human trafficking.
“Ensuring the safety and security of the victim is always the main goal in investigations, that’s why the Saskatchewan RCMP takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed response to human trafficking,” says S/Sgt. Danny Donison, the Saskatchewan RCMP SERT south region manager and head of the HTCEU.
“Saskatchewan residents know their communities better than anyone else. Recognizing and reporting suspected trafficking is essential when it comes to holding perpetrators accountable.”
Saskatchewan RCMP says victims may be trafficked by someone they know, e.g. a former or current partner, family member, friend, or trustworthy person. Recruiting tactics can be subtle; often victims don’t even know they’re being trafficked.
A victim of human trafficking may display signs like:
- They don’t have access to their ID, passport, or cell phone
- Are under the age of 18 and travelling with an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian
- They don’t know their surroundings or are unaware of what city or town they’re in
- Appear to be in a controlling or abusive relationship
- Show signs of trauma, such as burns, bruises, or cuts
- Signs of malnourishment or fatigue.
Traffickers may approach potential victims by:
- Pretending to be a potential love interest, friend, or support person
- Connecting over social media or in person
- Offering gifts or money
- Introducing drugs or alcohol
- Threatening potential victims’ loved ones if they don’t comply
More details on spotting human trafficking are available online.
If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, call 310-RCMP or your local police immediately to report it.
In addition to contacting the RCMP, you can also contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. This hotline is confidential, available 24/7, and offers services in more than 200 languages.
Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
National Human Trafficking Day in Canada is February 22.
