Interpol announced on January 27 that a coordinated international operation led to the arrest of more than 3,700 people worldwide suspected of involvement in human trafficking and related crimes. The operation, carried out over several weeks, involved law enforcement agencies from dozens of countries across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas.
Interpol said the crackdown focused on criminal networks exploiting vulnerable people through forced labor, sexual exploitation and online recruitment schemes. Authorities also identified and assisted thousands of potential victims, many of whom were women and children trafficked across borders or within their own countries.
Officials noted that digital platforms played a growing role in trafficking activities, with criminals using social media and messaging apps to lure victims. The operation included cyber investigations, financial tracking and border controls aimed at disrupting trafficking routes and funding sources.
Interpol’s secretary general said the January operation demonstrated the importance of international cooperation in tackling organized crime that operates across jurisdictions. Human rights organizations welcomed the arrests but stressed that long term support for victims remains critical, including access to shelter, legal aid and rehabilitation services.
The arrests form part of Interpol’s broader strategy to combat transnational crime, with further joint operations expected later in the year as authorities continue to target trafficking networks worldwide.
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