5 Rescued In Major Anti-Human Trafficking Operation In SMC: Police

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Five people were rescued in a human-trafficking sting operation in South San Francisco, officials announced Tuesday.

The South San Francisco Police Department’s Human Exploitation Apprehension Team conducted a human trafficking rescue and recovery operation on April 23, as part of a major nationwide initiative.

The operation, which took place at an undisclosed location in South San Francisco, resulted in the recovery of five human trafficking survivors. The survivors were immediately connected with support services, with advocacy and resources provided by Rape Trauma Services, which was on-site during the effort.

One suspected trafficker was also detained, police said.

This local action was part of "Operation Coast to Coast," a coordinated, nationwide anti-trafficking sweep organized by the Human Trafficking Training Center. More than 250 law enforcement agencies across 30 states participated in what has been described as one of the largest anti-trafficking operations in United States history.

The SSFPD collaborated with several partners, including the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office Human Trafficking Unit, the Daly City Police Department, the San Mateo Police Department, the Brisbane Police Department, and the Northern California Regional Intelligence Center.

Operation Coast to Coast’s nationwide results:

• 129 victims were identified, including 11 minors who were rescued.
• 139 traffickers and sex buyers were arrested.
• Over 100 search warrants were executed.
• More than $500,000 in criminal assets were seized.

Anyone who suspects human trafficking in their community can contact their local law enforcement agency or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.