Extensive police operation: 36 human trafficking victims identified

The Icelandic police conducted searches at over twenty homes and locations, checking on approximately 250 individuals, as part of international operations targeting human trafficking earlier last month. A total of 36 people were identified as potential victims and were all offered appropriate assistance.

According to a police statement, the vast majority of the individuals involved were from Romania, and most of the victims—32 out of 36—were women. The majority had been trafficked for prostitution.

The operation was part of a coordinated international effort involving Europol, Frontex, and Interpol, spanning 43 countries.

Participating Icelandic authorities included the Reykjavík Metropolitan Police, Suðurnes Police, the National Commissioner of Police, and the Customs Authority.

Most victims in sexual exploitation

The operation primarily targeted human trafficking related to sexual exploitation (prostitution), forced criminal activity, and forced begging.

The police report states that 34 of the potential victims encountered during the operation had been engaged in prostitution. The individuals were aged between 19 and 54.

During the operation period, authorities also monitored 215 flights concerning potential trafficking victims and offenders.