Three Peruvian women rescued from suspected human trafficking operation in Gqeberha
A Hawks operation in Bluewater Bay has uncovered a suspected online scam operation after an alleged fake job offer brought an 18-year-old Peruvian woman to South Africa.
Three Peruvian women have been rescued from a suspected human trafficking operation in Gqeberha, South Africa. They were allegedly lured to the country under false pretences, according to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana. The rescue operation was initiated following information received through the National Human Trafficking Hotline after Peru raised concerns over an 18-year-old woman allegedly recruited with promises of a job at an online call centre.
The woman arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on October 2 and was taken to Gqeberha the following day. However, upon arrival at a lodge in Bluewater Bay, she discovered that the activities there were not as promised, as the premises were allegedly used for online scams targeting people in Peru. Upon investigation, authorities found 26 individuals at the premises, comprising 14 Peruvian women and 12 men.
The three rescued women, including the 18-year-old, were taken to a place of safety for further assistance and support. The remaining 23 individuals were taken to local police stations for further investigation and to establish their immigration status and involvement in suspected criminal activities. No arrests have been made yet, and the investigation is ongoing.
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