State and federal authorities took 29 women and a teenager into protective custody during the execution of two search warrants at bars in Cancún and Playa del Carmen, due to their alleged status as victims of human trafficking for the purposes of prostitution and labor exploitation, the State Attorney General’s Office reported.
The operations were carried out under the orders of judges and involved the State Attorney General’s Office, the Mexican Navy, the National Guard, and state and municipal security forces.
The first search took place at a bar on Rancho Viejo Avenue, in Cancún’s Superblock 244, where six women—five Mexican and one Cuban—were found allegedly soliciting and providing sexual services. A Mexican teenager, identified as a possible victim of labor exploitation, was also taken into protective custody at the location.
According to the investigation, clients paid 250 pesos per drink, which included the women’s company and allowed them to touch each other. Furthermore, sexual services cost between 1,000 and 2,000 pesos, of which the establishment kept 50 percent.
The second operation took place at a bar on Avenida 125 Sur, at the corner of Calle 17 Sur B, in Playa del Carmen. Twenty-three women were found there: 18 Mexican and five foreign—three Cuban, one Honduran, one Peruvian, and one Nicaraguan.
At this establishment, the entrance fee was 200 pesos, and sexual services were offered for 1,800 pesos, half of which went to the business.
After the proceedings were completed, both properties were secured and placed under ministerial custody. The 30 individuals were referred to the appropriate authorities for comprehensive care and protection, while the investigations continue.
Source: milenio
