Get the Facts – Trafficking in Persons

Trafficking in persons is the trade in persons for the purpose of forced labour or sexual exploitation.

According to the National Taskforce Against Trafficking in Persons (NATFATIP) this crime is known to be the most under reported in the world. It is estimated that hundreds of Jamaicans are or have been victims of human trafficking. However, between 2010 and 2016, only 62 victims were rescued.

How to Identify Potential Victims

Trafficking victims may:

1. Appear fearful or anxious when in the presence of his or her ‘employer’.
2. Be a minor or an adult who has been forced into prostitution or other ‘jobs’. He or she might also try to mask this activity.
3. Live with his or her ‘employer’.
4. Hesitate to speak to others freely.
5. Respond to questions with answers that are seemingly scripted.
6. Not be in possession of his or her identification documents (if he or she is an adult).
7. Not be attending school (if he or she is a child).
8. Show signs of physical abuse.
9. Receive little or no payment for ‘work’ done.

While there is a need to ask questions when trying to ascertain the status of a suspected trafficking victim, much caution is required, as the person may be fearful and in danger. Be mindful to exercise tact and discernment when faced with a potential case of trafficking in persons. To report a suspected case, you may contact the NATFATIP, located at the Ministry of Justice.

For further information and to make reports, please contact:

National Taskforce Against Trafficking in Persons
Ministry of Justice
61 Constant Spring Road
Kingston 10

Phone: 876-906-4923-31
Toll Free: 888-587-8423

Fax: 876-906-1712

E-mail: customer.service@moj.gov.jm
Website: https://moj.gov.jm/content/human-trafficing