In just two days, Ecuadorian National Police (ENP), their Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (UNAT), the Attorney General’s Office (FGE), and members of Our Rescue’s team in Latin America came together to rescue two teenaged girls, ages 14 and 17, from a life of sexual exploitation. Embroiled in extremely dangerous gang activity, caught between a notorious Transnational Criminal Organization (TCO) and local rival gangs, the girls had been forced into sexual exploitation in exchange for money…and more.
The TCO lured the 14-year-old into their circle and threatened her life, then left her vulnerable to exploitation and sexual abuse from multiple gang members as she was moved between groups and left subjected to ongoing abuse.
In another case, law enforcement received a tip that a 17-year-old girl was suffering a similar experience at the hands of the same TCO, also being sexually exploited. Two years prior, the girl, aged 15, had been subjected to sexual exploitation by a predator who was then brought to justice – arrested, prosecuted, and imprisoned. At the time, the girl received care and support from a shelter that specializes in helping survivors of human trafficking.
This was now her second experience with human trafficking and child exploitation. In this area, transnational criminal organizations have taken control of areas with high levels of poverty and vulnerability. In this context, exploitation networks often target young people in vulnerable situations, which increases the risk of exploitation.
In two separate operations, over the span of two days, Our Rescue assisted Ecuadorian law enforcement and their anti-trafficking unit, providing help with logistics, vehicle maintenance, and household security services. Our Rescue helped ensure both girls received immediate support, providing medicine, meals, and access to ongoing care.
At home and abroad, Our Rescue teams are grateful to our donors for their support. One-time and recurring donations help enable us to provide survivors with much needed support and resources. Your contributions help us join forces with governments, law enforcement, special task forces, and communities around the world in bringing criminals to justice.
