Published: 6:43AM Wednesday October 27, 2010
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Source: Reuters
A new campaign to raise public awareness of people trafficking has been launched by the Department of Labour.
From today, the government will distribute brochures in six languages to community groups and organisations, outlining possible signs of human trafficking.
The department says although there is no evidence of human trafficking into New Zealand, the public needs to be alert to the possibility of it happening.
Head of Immigration New Zealand Nigel Bickle said if people can identify possible indicators, they will be able to report it.
He said victims cross borders under the control of someone else with their money and passport withheld and no contact with the outside world.
He said it is a form of modern day slavery and is punishable in New Zealand by up to 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
New Zealand immigration officials are working with the Bali Process which brings countries together from the Asia/Pacific region to work on practical measures to help combat people smuggling, trafficking and related transnational crime.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the risks associated with illegal migration ventures.
"New Zealand has zero tolerance for people smugglers who prey on the vulnerable and put lives at risk", Bickle said.
He said legitimate ways to seek refugee status in New Zealand, through the UNHCR will remain the priority basis for considering applications.
"It is also illegal for New Zealanders to finance relatives and friends to join up with people smugglers - they could also face fines and imprisonment," he said.
"New Zealand will not tolerate any people smugglers trying to get around that process."
Source: ONE News/Newstalk ZBHuman trafficking campaign launched | NATIONAL News
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