12 would-be human trafficking victims rescued in Zamboanga City


ZAMBOANGA CITY – Twelve would-be human trafficking victims were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard during an operation here on Monday. 

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WOULD-BE trafficking victims rescued in a private wharf in Zamboanga City with the police.

The PCG disclosed that a Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspection team was searching for two minors in a private wharf at the Baliwasan Seaside bound for Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi based on a tip provided to their office. The minors were reportedly on their way to Sabah to work illegally.

No minors were found boarding any vessel during the inspection.

The PCG, however, spotted 12 passengers aboard the M/L STI who were potential victims of human trafficking also bound for Taganak Island, commonly referred to as the southern backdoor.

The individuals, five of whom were female, were reportedly residents of Manila, Las Piñas City, Taguig City, Zamboanga del Norte, and Zamboanga Sibugay.

They are in the custody of authorities for processing before they are sent home to their places of origin.