Two men have been arrested in Donegal as part of an international investigation into human trafficking

The men, aged 35 and 28, were arrested by Gardai for offenses relating to organized crime and are being questioned at Garda stations in the county under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007.

Gardaí say they are investigating suspected human trafficking to Ireland for the purpose of labor exploitation alongside “international colleagues”.

“This international law enforcement operation involves a joint investigation team established with law enforcement authorities in Latvia,” the Garda press office said.

“Law enforcement activities are also being coordinated in Latvia today, October 24th.

“The international operation is supported by Europol and Europol officers are present in Donegal during this operation.”

Gardai said the investigation team in Donegal was supported by local, departmental and national units, including the Human Trafficking Investigation & Coordination Unit (HTICU) at GNPSB, the Garda National Cyber ​​Crime Bureau (GNCCB), the Garda Mutual Assistance Section and the Garda Síochána Analysis Service (GSAS).

Gardai also reiterated an appeal for anyone who may be a victim of human trafficking or labor exploitation to speak to an officer, either at a local Garda station or on the confidential Garda telephone number on 1800 666 111

“An Garda Síochána understands that victims of these crimes may not always be able to report themselves. There may be an opportunity to speak to a Garda who you could meet at any location,” Gardai added.

“Importantly, An Garda Síochána calls on anyone who has information about these heinous crimes or suspects that someone is a victim of human trafficking to come forward and speak to a member of An Garda Síochána, whether at Your local Garda station or Garda Confidential telephone number 1800 666 111 or to any member of An Garda Síochána.”