The AIM SWAT Team recently received information that there were several children being sold for sex at a location in Phnom Penh that was fronting as a massage parlor. The team quickly launched a surveillance operation to confirm the tip.
At around 7 PM on Thursday, July 5 th, officers from the Phnom Penh Department of Anti-Human Trafficking and Juvenile Protection Police (AHTJPP), supported by AIM SWAT officers, executed a raid on the brothel location. During the raid, 3 minors were rescued – including 2 sisters – along with 4 adult women. Two suspects were arrested, and the brothel was officially closed by police, the prosecutor and local authorities after police had the opportunity to search for and seize the evidence they need for the case.
AIM Social Workers were on the scene to begin providing comfort and care to the victims. All 7 of them shared that they had been sold for sex by both suspects. The two suspects have since been charged with child sex trafficking related offenses and remanded to prison to await trial.
The 3 rescued minors have been transferred to an aftercare shelter run by a partner of AIM’s, and the 4 adults are being cared for at AIM Transitional Home in Svay Pak. The AIM SWAT Legal Team will represent the victims throughout the upcoming court process.
AHTJP Police officer talks with victims following raid SWAT Social Workers with victims following raid Police processing the case at the scene following raid
