As part of the Public Ministry’s (PM) ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and protect victims’ dignity, the Prosecutor’s Office against Human Trafficking, through the Unit Against Sexual Exploitation, executed a strategic enforcement operation that resulted in the rescue of 14 adult women subjected to sexual exploitation and the apprehension of five alleged perpetrators.

The operation was conducted in coordination with the Metropolitan Regional Prosecutor’s Office and the National Civil Police, through four judicially authorized search operations carried out in premises located in Ciudad Pedro de Alvarado, Moyuta, Jutiapa.

The targeted establishments operated as nightlife venues, identified as Bar Caramelo, Bar El Rinconcito, Bar El Crucero del Amor, and Bar El Ejecutivo, where authorities identified indicators of ongoing commercial sexual exploitation.

As a result of the coordinated intervention, the victims were rescued and provided with specialized victim assistance, following established institutional protocols for protection, psychological support, and legal guidance, ensuring their safety and access to justice mechanisms.

During the operations, law enforcement officials executed in flagrante arrests of Bammer L., Manuel J., María A., Keny A., and María M., who are being investigated for the offense of promotion, facilitation, or procurement of prostitution.

Authorities also secured material evidence relevant to the investigation, which will strengthen the evidentiary basis of the criminal proceedings. Additionally, Q3,000 was seized, and the establishment Bar El Ejecutivo was ordered closed as part of enforcement measures.

These actions reaffirm the Public Ministry’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks involved in sexual exploitation, while prioritizing victim rescue, protection, and prosecution of those responsible under the law.

Guatemala, March 20, 2026