Gardaí have confirmed that they took part in a huge worldwide operation targeting human trafficking and organised crime groups.
The operation, known as Operation Global Chain, also targeted forced begging, with units targeting these types of organised crime groups. The operation also included units from Frontex, Europol, Coast Guard Agency and the European Border and INTERPOL.
Overall, a total of 166 brothels were inspected nationwide, while 229 sex workers were interviewed. However, no victims of human trafficking were detected, but they were provided with information and advice should they wish to come forward.
It was also revealed that this operation saw 64 flights from Ireland West, Dublin and Shannon be monitored by members of the Garda National Protective Service Bureau (GNPSB), including 10,640 passengers.
Officers also inspected major ports in Ireland, including Rosslare and Dublin Port.
The operation led to a number of results including: the prosecution for purchase of sexual services in Co Meath, and a man in his 50s being arrested at a massage parlour in Cork on foot of an outstanding European Arrest Warrant from Germany for child kidnapping, hostage taking and illegal restraining. The man is currently in custody, pending extradition proceedings.
Other results include the seizure of more than €25,000 from two suspects, positive engagement with sex workers throughout the country. It was also reported that Gardaí had engaged with one quarter of all sex workers advertising nationally throughout the week.
Speaking about this operation, Gardaí released this statement: "Last month, Gardaí along with our global law enforcement partners took part in Operation Global Chain targeting human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, forced criminality and forced begging" (quoted from Galway Beo).
"The operation focused on detecting and disrupting organised crime groups involved in the trafficking of people, with a special focus on underage victims", they added. "We will continue to work closely with Europol and our other partners in the identification of victims so they can be removed from harm".
"We appeal to any individual who may be the victim of human trafficking or sexual exploitation to come forward and speak with us, either at a local Garda station, or to call the Garda Confidential Phone Number on 1800 666 111".
"We urge anyone with any information on these heinous crimes or suspects to speak up. In preparation for this operation, An Garda Síochána participated in an online hackathon in May 2026. The goal was to generate high-quality intelligence to bolster the operation’s effectiveness. Thirty-two countries, including Ireland, took part in the hackathon".
