Arequipa authorities dismantle human trafficking ring targeting Paraguayans

Authorities in Arequipa, Peru, conducted simultaneous raids on three properties to dismantle a human trafficking ring targeting Paraguayan nationals. The operation, coordinated by the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Human Trafficking Crimes in Arequipa and the Paraguayan Public Ministry through the Redtram network, resulted in the rescue of an 18-year-old Paraguayan woman. The victim had reportedly been deceived with a promise of employment in a hair salon before being forced into prostitution.

During the raids, police detained two women and seized 32 mobile phones, 18,000 soles, surveillance equipment, and other items.

Statistical data from the Arequipa Specialized Prosecutor's Office indicates that 123 human trafficking cases were reported between January 1 and September 6 of this year. While the office has provided protection and support to 653 victims between 2023 and 2026, recent figures show a decline in the monthly average of cases attended, dropping from a four-year average of 16.9 to 8.1 cases per month in 2026.