Sask. organizations concerned about human trafficking case

A human trafficking case involving a Bangladesh woman being forced to work in several Saskatchewan restaurants has a number of local organizations speaking out.

Jim Bence, the CEO of Hospitality Saskatchewan, said it’s extremely concerning.

“On the human trafficking side, I was absolutely shocked,” Bence said. “You do hear about it, and it can happen within communities right under our noses, and we would never even suspect it.”

Bence said his organization has been taking the lead on awareness programs to prevent human trafficking in the industry, which includes a training program to educate the workers on warning signs to look for.

He said labor trafficking isn’t always easy to recognize, however.

Bence explained some subtle hints of human trafficking include recognizing that somebody has no money, paperwork, or documentation with them in any way, as well as no cellphone.

Bence advised businesses or employees in the hospitality industry to pay close attention whenever they suspect something out of the ordinary, document it, and let other people know.

If enough information is collected and the situation looks like an instance of trafficking, Bence said the police should be notified.

He said he believes there’s a need for more awareness programs for human trafficking to help educate business owners, employees and the general public.

Chantelle Priel, the public education and outreach co-ordinator at the Regina Sexual Assault Centre, also said there should be more resources available on trafficking, especially for those seeking support.

She said human trafficking is quite common, especially for women.

“About 96 per cent of all detected victims of human trafficking are women and girls,” Priel said.

She said some signs to look out for when it comes to human trafficking include physical signs of trauma or abuse, or when someone has no control over their passports, ID, finances or possessions.

“Typically when someone is being exploited it often involves a process of luring,” she explained, adding that victims in vulnerable situations are often targeted and manipulated.

She said her organization is currently working with the city’s police service on bringing more awareness to the issue, and providing more support to women and girls in need.