The Western Regional Prosecutor’s Office against Human Trafficking, in coordination with the Metropolitan Regional Prosecutor and supported by the National Civil Police, conducted 17 raids, inspections, searches, and evidence seizures at properties located in the municipalities of San Pablo Jocopilas and San Antonio Suchitepéquez, department of Suchitepéquez.

As a result of these actions, ten individuals were apprehended. Eight of them were identified during the investigation of the case known as “Los Tunecos,” which refers to a criminal phenomenon consisting of various smaller-scale criminal groups operating within the department and connected through owners of sexual exploitation centers.

Those arrested for human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation are: Ingird M., Jacqueline A., Wendy T., José C., Elman M., Domingo M., Leydi V., and Luis H. Arrest warrants were authorized by the Specialized Court for Human Trafficking Crimes based in Quetzaltenango.

Additionally, during the operations, two individuals were caught in the act: Tomás P. for the crime of remuneration for promoting, facilitating, or favoring prostitution, and Dora L. for promoting, facilitating, or favoring prostitution.

As part of the operations, two properties were closed, various pieces of evidence were seized, and information was gathered to strengthen ongoing investigations. Furthermore, the rescue of four minors was coordinated, who are now under the care and protection of the Solicitor General’s Office.

This operation took place on the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, demonstrating the firm commitment of the Public Ministry to investigate, prosecute, and eradicate this crime in all its forms, with a focus on the comprehensive protection of victims.

Guatemala, July 31, 2025