Spotting a victim

You can help stop human trafficking by learning how to spot its victims. It’s not easy, but there are some tell-tale signs you can look out for.

Foreign workers in Oman are generally properly treated and paid in full. From their earnings they send much-needed cash to support their families and communities back home. It’s a legitimate exchange that benefits all.

But we all need to watch out for possible cases of human trafficking.

If you think you have spotted a victim you should alert the police or authorities immediately. Go to our EMERGENCY page to find out more.

You should never challenge the victim’s employer or boss directly.

Signs to look out for at an airport or bus station

  • Is the person dressed inappropriately for the travel destination?
  • Is the person carrying little or no luggage?
  • Is the person travelling with someone dressed more appropriately for the destination?
  • Does the person have bruises or injuries?
  • Does the person show signs of malnourishment, or do they have an unusually large appetite?
  • Is the person unable to provide information about their destination or flight?
  • Does the person answer questions with what sound like ‘rehearsed’ answers?
  • Does the person avoid eye contact, or do they seem hesitant or try to avoid speaking?
  • Does the person defer to the person they are with – or seem frightened of them?

Signs to look out for at a private home or in the workplace

  • Bruising or other signs of physical abuse.
  • Do they appear frightened, withdrawn or confused?
  • Does the person’s freedom seem restricted? Are they not allowed to leave the premises? Are they always accompanied when they do go out for their break or shopping?
  • Are they forced to stay in accommodation provided by the employer?
  • Do they claim not to know their personal details?
  • Do they have their passports with them or are they kept by their employer?
  • Do they lack protective gear or suitable clothing?
  • Are they accompanied by a person who seems to be ‘steering’ them?

Remember: Spotting one of these signs does not prove that someone is being exploited or trafficked. But the more signs you see, the more suspicious you should be.

If you think you have seen someone who may be a victim of human trafficking contact the police or other authorities. Find out more here.