Simon Wade
A STARK video intended for people that use prostitutes has been released by Spanish National Police.
The 90-second clip warns clients that they are indirectly funding the human trafficking industry that ruins the lives of almost a thousand men and women each year in this country.
In the fight against the trade in humans, social media profiles of Policia Nacional are promoting the hashtag #SinClientesNoHayTrata, or ‘No Clients, No Trafficking’, from this week.
Coinciding with the International Day Against Sexual Exploitation, it explains that more than 80% of prostituted women in Spain have been forced into the role.
Criminal gangs have brought them into Spain under false pretenses, with the sole intention of using them to sell sexual activity.
Police sources say 921 victims of trafficking were released last year during 515 investigations.
During the first eight months of 2020, 333 similar operations have already been carried out, with some victims being minors.
The video campaign sees the National Police appealing to the client, warning them that their money merely pays towards ‘debt’ racked up by the victims after they were conned into coming to Spain.
The trafficking gangs have been known to lure desperate and destitute women into a life of comparative luxury by working in Spain.
However, the ‘transfer costs become extortionate and the victims are forced into prostitution to repay the ‘debt’.
The Olive Press reported this week that sexual exploitation is a crime generating billions in profit in Spain and across the globe.
READ MORE: New Sexual Freedoms Act could spell an end to Spain’s brothels
Confidential citizen collaboration
The National Police have the telephone number, 900 105 090, and the email treat@policia.es so that anyone can provide information on such crimes.
Both options are free, confidential and managed directly by specialised agents.
Since 2013, citizen collaboration has been key in police investigations related to human trafficking and the liberation of victims.
