Keep Kids Safe From Human Traffickers

Detective Sergeant of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Vice Squad, Kevin Strachan, is appealing to parents and guardians to “keep a keen eye” on their children in order to protect them from becoming victims of human trafficking.

He made the call as he participated in a virtual panel discussion hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Friends across Borders Jamaica on Tuesday (May 18) under the theme ‘Honour Our Mothers, Protect Our Children’.

Mr. Strachan said that children who are in a vulnerable state are the ones who are mostly preyed upon by traffickers. He identified these vulnerabilities to be problems at home, long-term abuse, mental health issues and more.

He cited a recent case involving a child who is mentally disturbed.

“They (the police) couldn’t collect a statement… so she was referred for psychiatric help. So this is among the factors that lead persons to become victims of human trafficking,” he noted.

Mr. Strachan said it is imperative that parents know the friends and associates of their children, as it is often persons they are familiar with who lure them into trafficking.

Mr. Strachan pointed out that with increased public awareness, more Jamaicans will be better able to spot the indicators of human trafficking and help push Jamaica to become a Tier One country in the fight against the scourge.

“Our country is being rated as all other countries. We are presently ranked at Tier Two,” he indicated.

“If you are a Tier One, then you are fully compliant. If you are a Tier Two it is said that you are doing well but need to do more. If you are at Tier Two Watch List then it says you are barely doing anything, and if you are at Tier Three then you are found to be delinquent and can be served sanctions,” he outlined.

Mr. Strachan said the Government will continue to do all it can to protect persons against human trafficking.