Dozens of countries worldwide joined an operation to combat human trafficking, arresting over 1,000 suspects and rescuing more than 2,000 trafficking victims.
Foreign news agencies reported on 6 Jul 2026 GMT+7 that 59 countries worldwide participated in the “Global Chain” operation, coordinated by Interpol, to dismantle human trafficking networks globally, arresting over 1,000 suspects.
The operation targeted human trafficking networks involved in sexual exploitation, forced labor, criminal activities, and coerced begging.
Authorities stated that part of this operation dismantled trafficking rings that deceived victims into online scam work (call center/scammer gangs) in Cambodia, as well as networks forcing underage girls lured via social media into prostitution in Europe.
Across the operation, authorities identified 2,070 victims or presumed victims, mostly women. Among those arrested, 334 faced direct human trafficking charges and 690 were charged with related crimes.
Interpol, cooperating with Europol and Frontex, revealed that the operation exposed evolving trafficking routes and methods.
They found that victims from Latin America increasingly fell prey to trafficking for forced labor in Europe, with about 10% of identified victims being minors from the Americas exploited sexually.
Additionally, Colombian authorities launched an airport campaign to raise awareness about risks of fraudulent overseas job offers.
Interpol reported that Brazil’s national police identified 406 victims, including 83 Brazilians and 323 foreigners, trafficked by transnational networks sending victims to Cambodia to be forced into online scam operations.
At the same time, Interpol issued red notices and alerts to pursue suspects and persons of interest.
Interpol also stated that Argentine police rescued two Bolivian children forced to work in a grocery store and arrested suspects at the scene.
In another case, Belgian authorities arrested 17 suspects after dismantling a trafficking network suspected of imprisoning victims lured via social media and forcing them into prostitution across Belgium and France.
The operation took place from 8 to 12 June, involving over 40,000 police officers across countries in Africa, America, Asia, and Europe.
Data show most victims were trafficked for sexual exploitation, while 20% were forced into crime, 11% into forced labor, and 2% coerced into begging.
Interpol said identified victims were referred to national protection and assistance agencies, and the operation prompted 465 new investigations.
Additionally, 201 more suspects were identified, with countries including the UK, USA, France, Germany, Spain, Nigeria, Thailand, and Vietnam participating in the operation.
Follow international news:https://www.thairath.co.th/news/foreign
Source:bbc