Gardaí lead multi-agency operation to identify potential victims of human trafficking

Kenneth Fox

Gardaí led a multi-agency day of action at Dublin Airport on Thursday to identify potential victims of human trafficking for sexual exploitation.

Partner agencies including the HSE's Anti-Human Trafficking Team and Ruhama were included in Thursday’s activity.

It is part of the force's work in detecting and disrupting organised crime gangs that are exploiting vulnerable victims for financial gain.

The activity was also focused on raising awareness among potential victims of human trafficking that gardaí are here to help.

A number of potential victims were assessed and all were provided with information on the available agency supports.

Speaking this evening following the day of action, detective superintendent Derek Maguire of the human trafficking Investigation and coordination unit said: "Our day of action and presence at Dublin Airport forms part of our ongoing, collaborative work to identify and support some of the most vulnerable people in global society – those who are trafficked.

"We work closely with other frontline agencies both in Ireland and overseas to identify and support victims of human trafficking so that they can be removed from harm, and for us to bring those to justice who are intent on exploiting them for personal gain.

"We want victims to know that while they may have had a poor experience and been unable to trust in law enforcement previously, you can trust us to help lead you away from the terrible crimes being committed against you.”

They are appealing to anyone who may be the victim of human trafficking or sexual exploitation to come forward and speak with them either in person or by phone at a local Garda station or to call the Garda Confidential Phone number on 1800 666 111.