A South Bruce OPP spokesman says vigilant members of the public are the only hope for victims of human trafficking.
Constable Kevin Martin said it is happening in midwestern Ontario, and once a victim is in the hands of traffickers they see no escape. He said people need to call police immediately if they suspect human trafficking. He said anyone could be a victim, and once under control of a trafficker, they often seem meek and subservient.
"They're fearful, they're anxious, they appear depressed. Perhaps there are signs of physical abuse, malnourishment, there could be some underlying health issues, perhaps even some dental issues," he added.
Traffickers can come from all walks of life, Martin said, but they have no problem treating their victims like property.
"It's absolutely appalling, the threats, the manipulation, the assaults, that are used. The tactics they use to keep that tight control, it's something you'd think you'd see on TV or in a movie," he explained.
He said traffickers often look for vulnerable people online, through social media sites, or even in public places.
"So it begins with an innocent conversation, develops into a trusting friendship, and then a meeting, and then, whammo, they're hooked. They're kept where they're told to live, they're fed when and if they're told they can eat, they're often drugged," said Martin.
He added anywhere there are motels or hotels, human trafficking can take place.
If you feel that something isn't right, you should call the local police. Martin warns human traffickers are dangerous people, and you should not get involved yourself, other than making the call.
The South Bruce OPP has planned 3 Awareness Sessions on Human Trafficking, with the first taking place January 23rd starting at 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Lucknow Sports Complex at 662 Campbell St. in Lucknow
The next session is February 20, 2020, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Walkerton Clean Water Centre at 20 Ontario Rd., Walkerton. The final session takes place on March 5, 2020, from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at the Kincardine Davidson Centre at 601 Durham St. in Kincardine.
