Human trafficking will be the focus of Crime Line's 16 Days of Activism Against Abuse of Women and Children campaign, the anonymous tip-off service said on Sunday. "Human trafficking is a growing problem world-wide," said spokesman Yusuf Abramje, adding that women and children were constantly being exploited and abused. The theme of the 16-days of activism this year is "Don't look away, act against abuse". The campaign starts on Monday.

"It's time to break our silence. If you have any information on human trafficking, send your tip-off to Crime Line now to [sms line] 32211 or go to www.crimeline.co.za and the police will act," Abramjee said. "Many women and children are also being drawn into prostitution by organised crime syndicates. Let's get the leaders of these syndicates arrested," he said.

This was especially important with the Fifa 2010 World Cup around the corner, as human trafficking increased around big events, Abramjee said.

Meanwhile, the Redlight Campaign is taking the message of human trafficking to the people. Artist and activist will use drama to start the dialogue with community members and victims of in-country trafficking. According to Julayga Alfred of Activists Networking Against the Exploitation of Children (Anex), they will be recording the response of communities as well as the stories of people that have been trafficked within South Africa.

Entitled Give human trafficking the red card, the road show will visit Paarl, Laingsburg, Prins Albert and Beaufort West from 23 to 27 November. The launch of the road show takes place on Monday in Paarl and forms part of the 16 Days of Activism against violence on women and children. Interspersed between drama, entertainment and guest talks by among others the police, the issue of human trafficking will also be discussed based on community experiences, Alfred said. SAPA/VOC