Interpol Disrupts Human Trafficking Networks in Multi-Nation Operation Liberty III
Table of Contents
A global initiative coordinated by Interpol has resulted in over 3,700 arrests and assistance to more than 4,400 potential victims of human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
A sweeping international operation led by Interpol has dismantled several criminal organizations involved in human trafficking and illegal immigration, with significant arrests made across multiple continents. Operation Liberty III, as the initiative is known, focused on disrupting networks operating in Spain, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru, and beyond, revealing a concerning shift in migratory patterns.
Targeting the Northern Foxes in Peru
Authorities in Peru recently apprehended members of a criminal group known as the Northern Foxes, suspected of trafficking Venezuelan migrants to Chile. Interpol stated that the group is believed to have been involved in the trafficking of 30 Venezuelan migrants, including six minors. The arrests were directly facilitated by cooperation with a local bus company, highlighting the crucial role the private sector can play in identifying and disrupting these illicit operations.
“The arrests were the result of cooperation with a bus company, which underlines the importance of raising awareness in the private sector,” a senior official stated.
Shifting Migratory Routes and Policy Impacts
The operation comes as authorities observe a notable change in migration flows throughout the Americas. According to Interpol, there’s been a significant reversal of traditional routes, with increasing numbers of South American citizens traveling south through Central America. This shift is believed to be influenced by regional migration policies, particularly changes implemented in the United States following the 2024 election.
One analyst noted that “regional migration policies seem to be influencing these movements,” without specifying which countries are enacting the changes.
As a result, individuals attempting to migrate north are increasingly turning to more dangerous and expensive routes, such as sea and air travel, to evade heightened detection and security measures.
Document Fraud Remains a Key Facilitator
Document fraud continues to be a major enabler of these criminal activities. Interpol reports that both falsified documents and the fraudulent use of legitimate documents are widespread, allowing traffickers to move individuals across borders undetected.
Global Crackdown Yields Significant Results
The broader operation, coordinated globally by Interpol, resulted in the arrest of over 3,700 suspects and provided aid to over 4,400 potential victims of trafficking.
https://t.co/lg8drwrjCe – ABC News reported on the global scope of the Interpol operation on January 26, 2026.
A representative from Interpol highlighted the successful collaboration between countries like Spain and Colombia in achieving these results. The organization emphasizes the need for continued international cooperation to combat the evolving tactics of human traffickers and migrant smugglers and protect vulnerable populations.
