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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 4 suspected trafficers of human organ arrested, 9 'victims' rescued -- IACAT

4 suspected trafficers of human organ arrested, 9 'victims' rescued -- IACAT

Published Jul 15, 2024 10:10 am

By JEFFREY DAMICOG

Four persons, who were allegedly involved in the trafficking of human organ, were arrested in San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan.

During the operation conducted by members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) last July 15, rescued were nine persons, four of whom had their kidneys extracted and sold.

The names of those rescued were withheld by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT).

The IACAT said "the victims were recruited under the pretense of alleviating their financial burdens by selling their kidneys."

It also said: "The traffickers orchestrated the illegal transplants, exploiting the victims’ economic vulnerabilities. The victims were held in a house where their basic needs were provided to ensure they remained in good health until the kidney extractions could be performed.".

“This operation by law enforcers underscores the government's commitment to combating human trafficking and ensuring the protection and welfare of vulnerable individuals,” the IACAT said.

“The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking,” it added.

The IACAT also said the four suspected traffickers of human organ, whose names were withheld, were arrested while attempting to deliver payments to one of the victims.

“They were arrested for their involvement in harboring, and maintaining the victims for organ trafficking purposes,” the council said.

It said the operation was initiated following a case referral from the TV program "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" (KMJS).

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