Several premises around the country have been inspected by gardaí and a number of potential victims of human trafficking have been spoken to as part of a global operation targeting human trafficking.
An Garda Síochána, along with other law enforcement partners worldwide, took part in Operation Global Chain between 3 and 9 of June.
The operation focuses on detecting and disrupting organised crime groups involved in trafficking human beings – in particular child trafficking, sexual exploitation, forced criminality and forced begging.
Several premises were inspected in counties Dublin, Clare and Limerick and a number of potential victims of human trafficking were spoken to.
A number of women were identified as working in the sex industry and were provided with information on support organisations and information on the Organised Prostitution Investigation Unit and the Human Trafficking Investigation and Coordination Unit.
Gardaí were also present at Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports, as well as Connolly Station and Dublin Port throughout the week in a high-visibility awareness raising capacity.
Detective Superintendent Derek Maguire of the Garda National Protective Services Bureau said the operation demonstrates the ability of the Garda National Protective Services Bureau and its international colleagues to combat the organised crime gangs “that target the most vulnerable in our society”.
“We are committed to supporting victims human trafficking, and to bringing persons intent on exploiting human beings for personal gain, to justice,” he added.
Gardaí have appealed to anyone who may be the victim of human trafficking or sexual exploitation to come forward and speak with them, either at a local garda station, or to call the Garda Confidential Phone number on 1800 666 111.
Anyone with information on such crimes is also urged to speak up.
