Cape town - llitha Labantu, an organisation who has been advocating for the rights and protection of women and children for over 35 years, has welcomed and commended the arrest of Nigerian trafficker Gift Ekause.
The Hawks’ Economic Protected Resources team, together with the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement, Immigration Belville, and the Department of Home Affairs pounced on a house in Kraaifontein on 2 October 2024, where the 29-year-old, Ekause was arrested.
At the time, four other people believed to be trafficking victims were also in the house.
However Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani, explained that preliminary investigations and interviews by social workers discovered that the four possible victims were not trafficking in persons victims, but are illegally in South Africa.
“They were then immediately arrested and charged with contravention of the Immigration Act,” Hani says.
Ekause’s arrest emanates from a follow up investigation that started earlier this year, where it was discovered that she trafficked a person from Nigeria for sexual exploitation.
She appeared at Kuilsriver Magistrates Court on a charge of Trafficking in persons and contravention of immigration Act on Friday, where the matter was remanded to 10 October 2024 for bail information, while she remains in custody.
Ilitha Labantu said it recognises the arrest as a crucial step towards addressing the grave injustices faced by vulnerable groups.
“Human trafficking, particularly for sexual exploitation, continues to disproportionately affect women and children, stripping them of their dignity and basic human rights.
Ilitha Labantu spokesperson Siyabulela Monakali, said while they applaud the law enforcement agencies involved,they are still deeply concerned about the potential further victimisation of individuals arrested under immigration laws.
“Our long-standing commitment to combating violence against women and children compels us to call for a victim-centred approach in this case and others like it. It is vital that these individuals are carefully assessed to ensure they are not victims of trafficking themselves.
“We urge the authorities to prioritise their well-being and protect their rights throughout the judicial process.
“Ilitha Labantu remains dedicated to supporting survivors, ensuring they receive the necessary psychosocial and legal support to rebuild their lives. We continue to call for stronger measures and a coordinated response to eradicate human trafficking, ensuring that women and children are safe and free from exploitation."