Police raise alarm over surge in human trafficking cases

Police have raised alarm over a sharp rise in human trafficking cases, warning that increasing numbers of Zimbabweans are being lured abroad with false promises of lucrative employment, only to find themselves trapped in abusive and degrading conditions.

Authorities say trafficking syndicates are aggressively targeting desperate jobseekers through social media platforms, fake recruitment agencies and fraudulent employment contracts. Victims are often enticed with claims of high-paying jobs in countries such as South Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia.

However, upon arrival in the destination countries, many victims are allegedly subjected to forced labour, confinement, physical abuse and other forms of exploitation. Graphic videos and testimonies circulating on social media have exposed the harsh and often violent environments in which trafficked Zimbabweans are held.

Government officials say the trend is deeply worrying, noting that traffickers have become increasingly sophisticated, using digital platforms to appear credible and trustworthy.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi described the situation as disturbing.

"Our citizens are being deceived with false promises of high salaries and better living conditions, only to end up in foreign countries where they endure severe abuse," Comm Nyathi said. "We are intensifying awareness campaigns, strengthening inter-agency co-ordination, and working closely with foreign governments to rescue and repatriate victims."

He urged Zimbabweans to exercise extreme caution when responding to online job advertisements, particularly those that demand upfront payments for travel, visas or processing fees. Jobseekers were also warned against dealing with unregistered recruitment agents and advised to verify all offers with the relevant authorities.

According to Comm Nyathi, cybercrime experts have observed that traffickers exploit economic hardships by creating social media profiles that project luxury lifestyles and fabricated success stories to lure unsuspecting victims. Many survivors have reported suffering long-term psychological and physical trauma as a result of their ordeals.

In a post on X, Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana warned that human trafficking poses a serious threat to citizens' safety.

"Traffickers are exploiting social media with false promises of jobs abroad, leading to forced labour and servitude. We must unite in vigilant public engagement and action," he wrote.

The Government, working through Zimbabwe's embassies, has facilitated the safe return of several citizens stranded after falling victim to trafficking rings. Some returnees have recounted traumatic experiences, including working close to 20 hours a day, sleeping in overcrowded conditions and being denied access to medical care.

Comm Nyathi said investigations are under way to dismantle the cross-border syndicates behind the trafficking networks.

"The public is urged to report suspicious recruitment activities to law enforcement agencies. No Zimbabwean should risk their life by pursuing employment through unsafe channels," he said.

"We encourage citizens to verify all overseas job offers and consult relevant authorities before making travel arrangements. Your safety comes first."