On Monday, June 10, the awareness campaign Out of Grip was launched. The highlight took place on Thursday, June 13, at the VMBO in Bonaire, where the first action was carried out. The campaign targets youth in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, raising awareness of the growing problem of criminal exploitation.
In addition to the launch at the VMBO, the campaign will also be rolled out next school year at the Liseo in Bonaire and the Comprehensive School in Saba and Gwendolyn van Putten School in Sint Eustatius.
Young people are increasingly becoming victims
Young people are increasingly approached by people who want to involve them in criminal activities, often without them realizing it. What starts as something small, like picking up or passing on items, or lending a bank account, can have serious consequences. This often happens under pressure, through deception, or blackmail.
Flyer action and risk check at school
During the action, VMBO students received a flyer with recognition points and a QR code to an online risk check. Local influencers, IND CN, KPCN, Kmar, and Riec CN engaged with young people to discuss the topic.
At the same time, advertisements appeared in newspapers, radio spots, social media posts, and references to https://www.rijksdienstcn.com/uitdegreep. On the site, young people and parents can check if there is a risk and what they can do if in doubt.
Recognize the signals
Criminal exploitation often starts with:
• A task that must remain secret
• The promise of quick money or goods
• Someone asking to stay loyal
• Threats with gossip or private information
In doubt? Talk about it
Doubt is enough to take action. Talk to a mentor, teacher, or counselor. Reporting or consulting can also be done via the anonymous tip line of KPCN: 9310 or by email: meldmensenhandel@politiecn.com.
More information and risk check: https://www.rijksdienstcn.com/uitdegreep
