In Panama, two men were smuggling nine Iranian women from Panama City to the Costa Rican border. However, instead of safely transporting the women, the men forced them into sexual exploitation, telling them it was to pay for their transportation costs, trapping them in a nightmare far from home.
The Panama Police Intelligence Unit (DIP) uncovered the scheme and began investigating. In July of 2025, DIP referred the case to the Panama Police Anti-Trafficking Unit. Their investigation identified the two Panamanian men responsible for moving the women and ensuring they were exploited along the route to cover their supposed “debt.”
Once the case was confirmed, the Judicial Investigation Department (DIJ) launched an operation to intervene. Our Rescue assisted during the operation, helping ensure it had the resources needed to succeed. As a result, the nine women were rescued from trafficking, and both suspects were arrested on charges of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Following the rescue, the women were transported to a medical facility for examinations and care. Authorities are continuing their investigation, while the survivors receive the immediate attention they need.
Human trafficking can take many forms, often hidden within migration routes and financial coercion. But together, we can protect innocent lives and end exploitation.