She was only 17 years old, and she was being sold online for sex.
In September, the Peruvian National Police received a tip that someone was allegedly advertising the sexual services of minors, girls between the ages of 14 and 17, through a website and across social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Telegram.
Authorities immediately launched an investigation, initiating surveillance efforts that led to the identification of 5 individuals suspected of participating in a criminal network engaged in human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
In the early stages of the investigation, officers located and rescued a 17-year-old girl who was being held and exploited in a local hotel. After she was brought to safety, her courage to speak out became critical in helping investigators secure search and arrest warrants against the network responsible for exploiting her and others.
In November, the Peruvian National Police, Public Ministry, and DHS/HSI-Lima, supported by Our Rescue, carried out a joint operation. All five suspects were arrested for alleged human trafficking offenses. During the operation, Our Rescue’s Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K9 Samai was deployed and played an active role during the searches of three homes and one hostel, helping locate key evidence at the main suspect’s residence, including CDs, a tablet, and credit/debit cards.
Today, the 17-year-old survivor is no longer alone. Our Rescue’s Survivor Care team has supported and continues to work alongside the Government of Peru to provide her with psychological and emotional care as she begins the long road to healing.
There are more children still waiting to be helped.
Your support makes operations like this possible by bringing together law enforcement, technology, and survivor care to reach those who are still in danger.
