Gardaí take part in major global operation to tackle human trafficking

Kenneth Fox

Gardaí participated in a global week of action co-ordinated by Interpol tackling both human trafficking and migrant smuggling from September 29th to October 4th.

The main aim of Operation Liberterra II was to identify and dismantle criminal organisations involved in the smuggling of migrants, the trafficking in human beings, and other related crimes and to also ensure that assistance be provided to the victims of trafficking in vulnerable situations.

During this time period, the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB) and the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) worked together to combat both human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

Members of GNIB and the Human Trafficking Investigation and Coordination Unit (HTICU) were overtly present at Dublin Airport and conducted checkpoints.

A total of 120 flights were monitored and more than 16,000 people were checked during the week.

During the week of action, Gardaí from GNIB arrested one individual in relation to an alleged people smuggling incident earlier this year and another individual in relation to alleged people smuggling incidents in 2022 and 2023.

Both have since been released without charge with files being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

An Garda Síochána continues to work closely with Interpol and other law enforcement partners in identifying new victims of human trafficking so they can also be removed from harm.

They are appealing 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.