59-country operation rescues Moldovan woman in Greece
A 34-year-old woman from the Republic of Moldova, who was a victim of human trafficking for sexual exploitation, has been rescued and safely repatriated to her home country. This rescue was part of the international operation titled "Global Chain," which was conducted across 59 countries.
Law enforcement officers from the Republic of Moldova, in collaboration with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and Europol, have determined that a woman was recruited through social media. She was lured with the promise of a meeting in Greece.
After arriving in Greece, the victim was allegedly forced into providing sexual services.
Less than a week after leaving the Republic of Moldova, the woman was located by Moldovan police. With the help of international partners, authorities ensured her protection and safe repatriation.
The main suspect is currently being sought, and investigations are ongoing.
Law enforcement is also investigating the possibility of involvement in an international pimping network.
This case was documented as part of the "Global Chain" operation, which took place from June 8 to June 12. This operation brought together law enforcement authorities from 59 countries across Africa, America, Asia, and Europe to combat networks involved in sexual exploitation, forced labor, coercion to commit crimes, and forced begging.
Over 2,000 victims identified from 45 countries, including Moldova
According to Interpol, an operation has led to the identification of 2,070 victims, the arrest of 1,024 suspects, and the initiation of 465 investigations. Among those detained, 334 individuals are being investigated for human trafficking, while another 690 are facing charges for related crimes.
The operation was coordinated by authorities from Austria and Romania, in collaboration with Interpol, Europol, Frontex, and Ameripol. Police and border guards conducted checks at border crossings, airports, and other transport hubs, with participating countries exchanging information in real-time.
The identified victims hail from 45 countries, with a significant number from Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, the Republic of Moldova, and Nepal. Investigators report that these individuals were often recruited through deceit or coercion, exploiting their vulnerable circumstances, and transported abroad for the purpose of exploitation.
Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasized that human trafficking remains one of the most profitable and widespread forms of organized crime globally.
“Human trafficking generates hundreds of billions of dollars in illegal activity each year and inflicts serious and long-lasting suffering on its victims,” he stated.
Investigators also noted that trafficking networks continually adapt their methods and routes in response to economic opportunities, migration trends, and geopolitical developments.
Approximately 10% of the victims identified during the operation were minors from the Americas who were subjected to sexual exploitation.
