As unauthorized border crossings continue, human trafficking between the Mexico and California border becomes an increasing issue for authorities, who warn the illicit activity has now become a multi-million dollar business.
The crime is taking place across both sides of the border, according to Californian and Mexican authorities who met in Chula Vista, California, to discuss the pressing issue. They expressed that the practice is increasing its victims, most of which are migrants and refugees.
They also said that in San Diego alone, human trafficking with sexual exploitation purposes moves around $810 million annually, Noticias Telemundo reports.
The victims of human trafficking are usually young women exploited for sexual purposes.
"On average the victims are 16 years old, but we have rescued [minors under] 12 years of age who are exploited and forced to have relationships with strangers for money," said Dave Owen, an attorney in San Diego.
Owens also noted that San Diego is a popular place for human trafficking due to its proximity to the border. In that city, more than 360 victims are rescued per year, with more victims not being found.
Human trafficking is an issue that has particularly plagued the migrant and refugee community, Roxana Kennedy, Chula Vista Chief of Police, said. She pointed out that traffickers abuse "the vulnerability" and the desire of newcomers to have a better life in the U.S.
Kennedy also mentions Chula Vista, where she operates, human trafficking is a common exercise, as it is located just seven miles north of the border with Mexico, a key location for those looking for victims. Just like Owens, the Chief of Police, says she has found victims of all "race and ages." But Kennedy added that what they all have in common is that they are also "victims of [the search for] profits and control [of territories]."
Mexican authorities are also aware of the issue. The Mexican consul in San Diego, Alicia Kerber Palma, urged the development of joint actions on both sides of the border and asked for the public's collaboration.
"If you see something, say something," the diplomat emphasized.
The authorities' declarations came in a meeting between the two countries organized by the International Network of Hearts, a nonprofit organization that seeks to stop human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the region.
The founder and president of the network, Alma Tucker, declared that being such a dynamic area with so much tourism, the border and its nearby towns are an ideal terrain for exploiters. "In massive events, such as concerts and sporting events, these criminals often sneak in to convince girls, adolescents and women, who are often subjected by force," Tucker said.
The meeting, called Two Regions, One Border, served for members of organizations from both countries to gain in-depth knowledge of the signs that a person is a victim of trafficking and exploitation.
The event also comes as fourteen people were arrested and 10 victims of sex trafficking were rescued— including a 16-year-old girl— in a sting operation at the Comic-Con International convention in San Diego last week.
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