Global law enforcement operation targets human trafficking

Operation Global Chain took place between June 8 and June 12, 2026, across five continents to combat human trafficking for sexual exploitation, forced criminality, and begging. Coordinated by Europol with support from Frontex and Interpol, the operation involved authorities from 59 countries under the EMPACT framework. Austria led the operational coordination, with Romania acting as co-lead. The mission resulted in the identification of 2,070 potential victims and the arrest of 1,024 suspects, 334 of whom are specifically linked to trafficking charges. Furthermore, ongoing investigations led to the identification of an additional 201 suspects related to human trafficking offenses. Data indicates that the majority of victims are adult women, with 64.2% trafficked for sexual exploitation and 20.9% for forced criminal activities. The operation emphasized the protection of minors and aimed to dismantle organized criminal networks while initiating new criminal investigations.