Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first. The Saskatchewan hotel industry can play an important role in putting an end to human trafficking , according to the RCMP.
In a collaboration between RCMP and SHHA, an initiative is underway to institute processes and training programs that help employees recognize the signs of human trafficking and make appropriate responses. According to RCMP, there are an estimated 16, victims of human trafficking in Canada with only one per cent ever rescued.
These traffickers often use violence, intimidation and deception to make victims do as they say and feel that they cannot escape their situation. Although online advertisements show the majority of sex trade workers providing services in Regina and Saskatoon, police said there has been an increase in smaller communities like Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Weyburn, Swift Current, Estevan and North Battleford.
Despite the rising number of reported incidents, investigators said human trafficking remains largely underreported and unnoticed, due in part to its deceptive nature.
Hotels and motels are often the frontlines of human trafficking, according to RCMP, with rooms used to set up encounters between victims of sex and their purchasers. Is there minors or younger ladies? How many requests are there for more linens? It can be something that can be delivered in 45 minutes and with good discussion afterwards… it really could just start the awareness campaign off on good footing. Bence said the original intent was to reach about hotel operators in the province, just to get the ball rolling.
