[imagesource:needpix]

A daring escape by a human trafficking victim resulted in the rescue of three Thai nationals who were held captive at a house in Garsfontein.

Three suspects were also arrested when officers raided the Pretoria residence on Thursday.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said one of the victims managed to escape captivity and reported the trafficking ring to authorities. A multi-disciplinary operation was immediately launched which resulted in the rescue.

According to Colonel Mogale, “It was reported that information was received after one of the victims managed to escape from her captors. She then reported to the Thai Embassy that she had been held against her will for sexual exploitation.”

“This prompted the involvement of law enforcement and social services. The information was followed up and contact was made with one of the victims who was still held against her will at the premises.”

Members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, assisted by Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) K9 and Saps Pretoria K9 gained access to the premises where two more victims were found.

The suspects will appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on charges of trafficking in persons.

We don’t often give enough credit to the police, but this is another instance where they put boot to ass and should be commended for their swift response. The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng, Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa, also seemed to agree and congratulated the teams for their combined efforts.

There seems to be a bit of movement within SAPS lately as arrests are being made with more regularity than normal. Incidents like this could however be avoided if police intelligence was improved.

Preventing crime results in fewer victims than just solving it. In this instance, it was all thanks to the brave actions of a victim. It shouldn’t have to be.

[source:citizen]