PNG Police Bust Alleged Human Trafficking Operation, Rescue 39 Victims

Papua New Guinea police have disrupted an alleged international human trafficking operation in Port Moresby, rescuing 39 Indonesian nationals who were allegedly being held against their will.

Police carried out a search of a three-bedroom property in downtown Port Moresby following intelligence gathered by the Police Transnational Crime Directorate.

The victims — 34 men and five women — were allegedly recruited through social media using false employment offers before being confined at the property. Police said initial investigations indicate they were forced to work on an online scam.

Four Chinese nationals have been detained in connection with the alleged operation, with police expecting further arrests as investigations continue.

PNG Police Commissioner David Manning said investigators were tracing the alleged traffickers and their connections both within Papua New Guinea and overseas.

He said there would be “no leniency” for those involved in trafficking and exploiting vulnerable people.

Authorities are working with the Indonesian Embassy to provide consular, health and other assistance to the rescued individuals.

Police believe the case may be linked to a wider transnational trafficking network operating between Southeast Asia and the Pacific.