Why No One Is Immune: Insights from UOC’s Anti-Trafficking Expert Amy Arnold on South Africa's Rising Cases

With over a decade in U.S. law enforcement—including roles as a Police Academy Trainer, Domestic Violence Detective, and Patrol Sergeant—Amy Arnold brings unmatched investigative and training expertise to Unchain Our Children. In this Q&A, she provides authoritative answers to pressing questions amid South Africa's surging trafficking arrests.

In light of the recent Hawks arrest of a 52-year-old teacher, school principal, and pastor in the Eastern Cape, why is no level of society or industry exempt from producing traffickers?

“How someone becomes a trafficker is complex. Some were trafficked themselves and climbed the ranks. Others act out of desperation, exploiting anyone to survive. Many grow desensitized through pornography or extreme content, so the acts no longer seem drastic.

Ultimately, traffickers are businesspeople who slide into this role gradually. No child dreams of becoming a prostitute—or of selling people. Traffickers often lie to themselves to justify their actions.”

How to Spot a Trafficker

“There’s no physical profile—traffickers look like anyone. Focus on personal traits and master the stages of grooming (see Episode 4 of the Let’s Talk series at unchainourchildren.org.za. Pair this with online safety knowledge. Most trafficking rings are run by organized crime, so learn their tactics too.”

How to Prevent Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking

“Apply grooming and online safety principles daily. Worldwide, less than 4% of cases involve abduction or kidnapping. Most stem from false promises of employment, education, or relationships.”

What to Do and Who to Report Trafficking To

“Call the national Trafficking Hotline at 0800 222 777 (privately run, with strong records and police follow-up). In Gauteng, report to Unchain Our Children—we’ll log it with the national hotline.”

What red flags do survivors wish they had heeded? 

“It’s often a misunderstanding of true love versus grooming.”

What warnings do survivors give young people? 

“Learn what real love is. Distinguish between being valued and being groomed. Beware ‘too good to be true’ job offers—they’re almost always fake.”

What do survivors need to heal? 

“Counselling, empowerment, and stable employment.”

How can ordinary citizens support a survivor’s recovery?

“Restore their power. Avoid dictating solutions—they need to reclaim their voice.”

Popular Myths About Trafficking

“The ‘stranger grab at a mall’ scenario is rare. Overwhelmingly, it’s deception via employment, education, or relationship promises.”

Related Crimes That Often Run Parallel

“Illegal drugs, job scams, and the porn industry.”

The Role of Drugs in Exploitation and Trafficking

“It’s rarely about spiking drinks in bars—trafficking builds on false trust or relationships. That said, always watch your drink being made (or open it yourself) and go with a friend to bars or first dates. Drugs primarily enable control, keeping victims addicted and trapped.”

Resources 

Amy’s Let’s Talk video series—on grooming, prostitution, and human rights—plus free downloadable flyers, at www.unchainourchildren.org.za 

Discover & Connect 

Book Amy for training: Wayne van Onselen, 072 364 8246

Report child abuse: UOC Crisis Centre, 067 323 7116