MONTREAL, Que. — The Owner-Operator’s Business Association of Canada (OBAC) and Persons Against the Crime of Trafficking in Humans (PACT)-Ottawa have produced a French language version of their TruckStop campaign.

The new version was released at ExpoCam. It raises awareness about human trafficking and alerts truck drivers on signs to look for during their travels.

“Truck drivers can make a valuable contribution to combating human trafficking,” said OBAC executive director Joanne Ritchie. “We’re proud to support the TruckStop Campaign and be part of the solution to a devastating problem.”

Meanwhile, PACT-Ottawa has renewed its partnership with OBAC. According to the organizations, people being held and transported against their will often exhibit certain signs and behaviours. The groups would like truck drivers to be on the lookout for these telltale signs and to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers (800-222-TIPS).

“Transportation is a key element of human trafficking. Traffickers move their victims frequently, to isolate them and to avoid detection. They travel the same roads and highways that truck drivers do,” says PACT’s Kim Howson, coordinator of the TruckStop Campaign. “PACT-Ottawa believes that truck drivers are in a good position to help stop human trafficking and we’re giving them the tools to join the fight.”

The PACT materials, now available in French, include audio CDs, wallet cards and posters. They’re available free of charge. Visit www.pact-ottawa.org or www.obac.ca for info.