SAPS records 17 kidnapping cases linked to human trafficking in three months

SAPS data shows 17 kidnapping cases linked to human trafficking between January and March 2026, with 9 cases in Gauteng. In 2025, a total of 67 similar cases were recorded nationwide, mostly in Gauteng. Human trafficking awareness campaigner Talitha Oosthuizen emphasizes that trafficking often involves grooming, manipulation, and coercion rather than just kidnapping. She stresses the importance of education to recognize warning signs and prevent victims, especially among children, parents, and teachers.