4 people rescued in anti-trafficking operation in Iligan City

Authorities rescued four women, including two minors, and arrested a hotel security guard for alleged human trafficking in Iligan City.

Police said the 44-year-old suspect allegedly acted as a contact person and arranged sexual activities involving the victims.

One of the adult victims was also revealed to be the security guard's contact person.

Investigators said the guard had been arrested before for his alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

The entrapment operation was launched by the Iligan City Police Office Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) Task Force and the City Social Welfare and Development Office from the hotel where the suspect works.

During the operation, evidence was seized including a cell phone and P6,000 in cash.

The suspect was taken to the police station and will be charged with violating the expanded anti-human trafficking law.

Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Director Brigadier General Ricardo Layug Jr. reiterated the police’s commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting the vulnerable.

“May this achievement remind us of our duty to uphold justice and safeguard human rights. We must continue to be vigilant, proactive and relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to exploit and harm others. Our commitment to combating human trafficking remains unwavering and we will use all available resources to bring perpetrators to justice,” Layug said.