NBI operatives rescue more than 30 alleged victims of human trafficking in Bulacan

More than 30 alleged victims of human trafficking were rescued in separate operations conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Bulacan, John Consulta reported on "Saksi."

The operatives from the NBI Bulacan office swiftly rescued 25 women, who were identified as victims of human trafficking in a resto-grill in Bocaue, Bulacan.

The NBI agents said the customers are offered a "package deal" for one thousand pesos.

"Pina-package nila sa drinks yung sex, yung mga babae," said Atty. Emil Santos, NBI Bulacan District Office chief.

(They offer, together with a package of drinks, sex and the women.)

At least five suspected pimps were arrested during the operation. GMA News is still trying to get a statement from the suspects.

In a separate operation, also conducted in Bocaue, the NBI raided a spa wherein 11 women were rescued while operatives arrested two suspects that GMA is trying to get a statement from.

According to the NBI, the said spa offers "extra service" to their clients.

Atty. Giselle Garcia-Dumlao, NBI spokesperson, underscored the importance of conducting anti-trafficking operations.

"Napaka importante ang mga operasyon laban sa trafficking because, unang-una, ang human trafficking ay labag sa human rights ng mga victims. At patuloy pa rin naman ang pandemic ngayon. So para mailayo sila sa COVID-19 at sa mga posibleng sexually transmitted disease na pwede nilang makuha sa ganitong klaseng trabaho," she said.

(These operations against trafficking is very important because human trafficking is a violation of the human rights of the victims. And, since there is still the pandemic. (These type of operations) keep them from being infected with COVID-19 and possibly prevent being infected with sexually transmitted disease that they may acquire in this type of work.)

Garcia-Dumlao said the suspects arrested in both operations will face charges related to the violation of the Expanded Anti-Trafficking Act. -- BAP, GMA News