WASHINGTON, July 30: U.S. authorities arrested 905 suspected human traffickers and rescued 180 victims during a nationwide operation conducted throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The month-long operation was carried out jointly by federal law enforcement and customs authorities across multiple states. Among those rescued were 30 children and minors who had allegedly been exploited by trafficking networks.
DHS said intelligence assessments had indicated an increased risk of human trafficking linked to the influx of domestic and international visitors attending the tournament. In response, authorities intensified surveillance, monitored online activity, and conducted undercover operations to identify and dismantle trafficking networks.
Lauren Bees, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, said that while millions of fans enjoyed the World Cup, law enforcement personnel across the country remained focused on combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals.
Officials did not provide a full city-by-city breakdown of the arrests and rescues. However, they confirmed that Miami recorded 178 arrests, while Atlanta accounted for 153 arrests during the operation.
The DHS said investigations and enforcement actions against human trafficking networks are ongoing.
