Financial Crime World

Peru Authorities Crack Down on Human Trafficking Ring in Madre de Dios Region

Lima, Peru - February 15, 2022

In a major operation, Peruvian authorities, with the assistance of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), have arrested three nationals for their alleged involvement in a human trafficking ring in the Madre de Dios region.

Operation Details

  • The operation began on February 5 after a police report was filed by a mother alleging that her daughter had been trafficked in the town of La Pampa.
  • HSI and Peruvian National Police (PNP) interviewed the victim, who provided information about other potential victims.
  • Over the next two days, authorities assisted two additional victims and arrested three individuals, including Monica Baca Munoz and Guicela Baca Munoz, for trafficking in persons/sexual exploitation under Peruvian law.

Quotes from Officials

“This successful operation demonstrates the importance of international collaboration in disrupting human trafficking organizations. We hope that this effort will encourage more victims to come forward so we can remove them from harm’s way and bring perpetrators to justice.”

— HSI Lima Assistant Attaché Paul Salamon

“We will continue to work with our international partners to combat this heinous crime. Human trafficking is a global problem that requires a collaborative response.”

— HSI Lima Assistant Attaché Paul Salamon

The Growing Concern of Human Trafficking in Peru

Peru has become a significant hub for human trafficking in South America, with thousands of people, mostly women and children, being trafficked into the country each year. Many victims are lured into the country with promises of work or education, only to find themselves forced into labor or commercial sex exploitation.

Human Trafficking in Peru

Statistics

  • Thousands of people, mostly women and children, are trafficked into Peru each year.
  • Many victims are lured into the country with promises of work or education.
  • Victims often find themselves forced into labor or commercial sex exploitation.

Government Response

The Peruvian government has taken steps to combat human trafficking, including:

  • The creation of a special task force
  • The passage of anti-trafficking legislation

However, more needs to be done to address this growing problem.

Global Response

Human trafficking is a global issue that requires a collaborative response from governments, law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and individuals. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has established a Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) to coordinate efforts across the department and with international partners.

The CCHT aims to advance counter-human trafficking law enforcement operations, protect victims, and enhance prevention efforts by aligning DHS’s capabilities and expertise. The center works closely with U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to identify and disrupt human trafficking networks.