With the festive season nearly upon us, many will throw caution to the wind and be caught up with the euphoria that year-end celebrations bring. However, what they don’t realise is that they are putting themselves in danger and increasing their chances of going missing.
Bianca van Aswegen, Criminologist and National Coordinator for Missing Children South Africa (MCSA), told The South African that vulnerabilities are one of the factors that contribute to people going missing. The non-profit organisation works closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) regarding cases of missing persons.
IOL reports that the SAPS emphasise the need to report a missing person immediately. Find out the numerous reasons Aswegen shared that could lead to anyone going missing and expert safety tips.
WHAT ARE THE REASONS WHY PEOPLE GO MISSING?
Bianca van Aswegen provided a number of reasons why anyone, whether young or old, could go missing. She said “there is no specifics that can be contributed” to someone missing. Aswegen expressed that anyone is at risk, and it can happen “at any time, at any place.”
She further explained: “We have various reasons why children/adults go missing. We have kidnappings, trafficking in persons, run-aways, children getting lost and many other reasons.”
The criminologist detailed how vulnerabilities are also factors contributing to people going missing. “Vulnerability does play a role in some cases, and then also we see cases where wealthy families have loved ones that are kidnapped for ransom.”
The one reason that vulnerabilities are more of an issue is the trafficking in persons. “There are more vulnerability factors when it comes to trafficking in persons, such as desperation for work, lack of education, lack of family support etc.”
WORRYING TRENDS
There are a few worrying trends the public should be aware of. One of the biggest ones right now is trafficking. Aswegen said: “Kidnappings have risen dramatically over the last two years, and trafficking in persons is a real and prominent danger.”
SAFETY TIPS TO AVOID GOING MISSING
Aswegen also shared that being informed about the safety measures is crucial. “We are heading into festive season when it is a very busy time at our shopping malls etc, that does pose a danger.”
Keep these tips from MCSA and SAPS in mind to stay safe:
- Always be aware and familiarise yourself with your surroundings, especially when on holiday.
- Limit driving at night and vary your daily route if possible.
- Avoid talking to strangers if they approach you.
- Stay away from areas that are isolated or dark.
- Always try to be in a group instead of alone when going out.
- Be aware at public facilities like mall toilets.
WHAT SAFETY MEASURES DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND LOVED ONES?
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