Five human trafficking survivors were recovered late last month during a rescue operation by the South San Francisco Police Department — one piece in what authorities are calling one of the largest anti-trafficking operations in U.S. history.
The survivors, who were not identified, were found at an undisclosed location in South San Francisco on April 23, officials said. Officials said one suspected trafficker, who also was not named, was detained but subsequently released pending further investigation.
More details on the sting were not immediately available.
The effort was part of a nationwide initiative called “Operation Coast to Coast.” Organized by the Human Trafficking Training Center, more than 250 law enforcement agencies across 30 states have participated in the operation. The sweeps have so far resulted in the identification of 129 survivors — 11 of whom were minors — and the seizure of more than $500,000 in criminal assets, officials said.
At least 139 suspected traffickers and sex buyers were also arrested across the country, officials said.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking in their community is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.