Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
POLICE have raised the alarm over a sharp increase in human trafficking cases, amid reports that scores of Zimbabweans are being lured abroad with false promises of lucrative jobs, only to end up 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, enticing victims with claims of high-paying opportunities in countries such as South Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia.
However, once the victims arrive in those countries, many are subjected to forced labour, confinement, physical assault and other forms of exploitation. Disturbing videos and testimonies circulating on social media have revealed the harsh and often violent environments in which trafficked Zimbabweans are kept.
Government officials say the surge is worrying, particularly as traffickers have become more sophisticated, using digital platforms to appear credible and trustworthy.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi described the trend 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. We are intensifying awareness campaigns, strengthening inter-agency co-ordination, and working closely with foreign governments to rescue and repatriate victims,” he said.
Comm Nyathi urged Zimbabweans to exercise caution when responding to online job advertisements, especially those demanding upfront payments for travel or visa processing. He warned jobseekers to avoid unregistered recruitment agents and verify all offers with the relevant authorities.
Cybercrime experts, Comm Nyathi said, have noted that traffickers exploit economic hardships, creating social media profiles that project luxury lifestyles and fabricated success stories to lure unsuspecting victims. Many survivors have reported long-term psychological and physical trauma from their experiences.
Posting on his X page, Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Nick Mangwana, said human trafficking threatens the safety of citizens.
“. . . 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 its embassies, has facilitated the safe return of several citizens stranded after falling victim to trafficking rings. Some returnees recounted traumatic ordeals, including working nearly 20 hours a day, sleeping in overcrowded rooms and being denied medical care.
Comm Nyathi said investigations are ongoing to dismantle the cross-border networks responsible.
“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.”
