Last month in Peru, Aerial Recovery’s joint law enforcement operations helped dismantle major trafficking networks - including one where victims were trapped behind an 18-foot metal wall, told they owed thousands in "travel debt," and threatened with death if they tried to escape.
Their tragic stories are more common than we’d like to admit. We've identified the playbook criminals like Tren de Aragua use, and today, we're sharing it with you.
The Lies They Tell:
1. "The Dream Job Abroad"
What they promise: Restaurant work, hospitality, modeling, childcare
The reality: Victims arrive to find the job doesn't exist, or it's a cover for exploitation
Red Flag: Jobs that require immediate travel but provide vague details about employers or addresses
2. "We'll Handle Your Documents"
What they say: "We'll keep your passport safe" or "We need to process your work papers"
The reality: Document confiscation is control. Without ID, victims can't escape or seek help
Red Flag: Any employer who insists on holding personal documents
3. "You Owe Us"
What starts small: "Travel costs," "accommodation fees," "uniform expenses"
What it becomes: Manufactured debt that grows faster than victims can "repay" it
Red Flag: Unexpected debts that weren't discussed upfront, especially with unclear terms
4. "Your Family Will Suffer"
The threat: "We know where your mother lives" or "Your sister is beautiful too"
The weapon: Fear for loved ones keeps victims compliant even when physical barriers don't exist
Red Flag: Any employer who asks excessive questions about family or takes photos of family members
5. "No One Will Help You"
What they say: "You're here illegally now" or "The police work for us"
The truth: Victims have rights regardless of immigration status, and we've proven corrupt officials can be exposed
Red Flag: Anyone who isolates workers from law enforcement or embassy contacts
The Signs Hidden in Plain Sight:
In our Lima operations, we discovered victims in businesses that looked legitimate from the outside. Here's what we found behind the facade:
Surveillance cameras pointed at exits, not for security but for control
Windows painted over or covered
Excessive security that seems to keep people in, not out
Workers who won't make eye contact or seem fearful
"Employees" who don't know basic information about their workplace
Cash-only businesses with unusual hours
Multiple young women living at their "workplace"
Report Suspicious Activity:
If you suspect human trafficking, do not attempt to intervene directly. Instead, contact law enforcement or the trafficking hotline immediately.
U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Text: "HELP" to 233733 (BeFree)
For international situations: Contact your local embassy or consulate
Reports are confidential and you can remain anonymous.
Your Support in Action:
The intelligence that led to rescuing those 18 girls in Lima started with someone recognizing red flags. The surveillance equipment that documented the "Andahuaylas Train" network was funded by supporters like you. The undercover training that infiltrated these operations was made possible by your generosity.
Every rescued girl had a moment when someone noticed. Someone acted. Someone called.
Let's make sure that next someone knows what to look for. Please consider supporting them by making a contribution to Aerial Recovery’s Global Rescue fund today.
Together, we can Save Lives and Stop Evil.
