T&T’s Counter Trafficking Unit recently took part in Interpol’s largest-ever global operation against human trafficking and smuggling.

Spanning 116 countries and conducted from September 29th to October 5th, Operation Liberterra II led to the rescue of 3,222 potential victims of trafficking and the identification of 17,793 irregular migrants worldwide.

During the exercise, the CTU, in collaboration with the Immigration Division, also strengthened its border monitoring at Piarco International Airport.

Screening efforts covered 47 incoming flights and over 5,300 passengers, detecting human trafficking and smuggling risks, identifying fraudulent activities and focusing on the protection of unaccompanied and separated children.

According to the National Security Ministry, T&T achieved Interpol’s Level 1 designation, demonstrating its capability to rescue victims and successfully charge suspects.

In total, Operation Liberterra II conducted nearly 8 million checks against Interpol’s databases globally, and the coordinated efforts of participating countries led to 2,517 arrests related to human trafficking and smuggling.

Interpol’s Executive Director of Police Services, Stephen Kavanagh, emphasized the success of the operation, stating, “Beyond providing a snapshot of global trafficking and migration trends, the operation served as a vital capacity building opportunity for countries, fostering relationships between specialized units, and enhancing cross-agency collaboration.”