More than 1,000 arrested as part of global human trafficking crackdown

It was also stated that two Bolivian child victims, who were forced to work in a grocery store, were rescued and arrested by the Argentinian police.

Separately, Belgian authorities have busted a human trafficking network that allegedly held captive victims recruited via social media, arresting 17 suspects and forcing them into prostitution rings across Belgium and France.

The operation, which took place between 8 and 12 June, was carried out by 40,000 officers in countries in Africa, America, Asia and Europe.

It was revealed that most of the victims were trafficked for the purpose of sexual exploitation, 20 percent were dragged into crime, 11 percent were forced to work and 2 percent were forced to beg.

Interpol said that the victims identified during the operation were directed to national protection and support services, and as a result, 465 investigations were launched.

During the operation, 201 more suspects were identified. Countries such as England, USA, France, Germany, Spain, Nigeria, Thailand and Vietnam participated in the operation.

Interpol Secretary Valdecy Urquiza said human trafficking remains “one of the most profitable and widespread forms” of organized crime, generating billions of dollars in illicit revenue each year.

He added that the crime caused “severe and lasting harm to victims”, saying the operation’s results “demonstrate what can be achieved when countries work together to disrupt criminal networks and strengthen cooperation across regions”.