Trinidad and Tobago’s Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) have charged two men with a combined 29 offences, including human trafficking, child sexual abuse and money laundering, following a major investigation into an alleged trafficking network operating in the southeastern community of Rio Claro.

The charges stem from “Operation Purple Ryain,” an intelligence-led investigation conducted by the CTU. 

The operation also resulted in the first use of Preventive Detention Orders (PDOs) by the CTU under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2026 of the State of Emergency.

Authorities said 46-year-old Ryan Anthony Mark faces 18 charges, while 44-year-old Sherwyn Marlon Guevarro has been charged with 11 offences.

According to the CTU, the charges include multiple counts under the Trafficking in Persons Act, including allegations that the men harboured two adults and two minors for the purpose of exploitation.

The accused also face several charges under the Children Act and Sexual Offences Act, including allegations of sexual penetration of female children, causing a child to engage in sexual activity and buggery.

One of the accused has also been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession and confiscation of identification documents, transporting a person for the purpose of prostitution-related exploitation, administering dangerous drugs to a child, and money laundering offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The investigation was launched after intelligence received through INTERPOL suggested the existence of a suspected human trafficking network in the Rio Claro area.

On March 7, CTU officers executed a search warrant at a property on Fraser Street, Rio Claro, where 11 Venezuelan nationals were found.

Investigators said subsequent interviews and screenings led to four individuals, including two minors, being formally identified as victims of trafficking.

Authorities alleged that evidence uncovered during the investigation pointed to prolonged exploitation, physical abuse, confinement and other forms of violence against the victims.

The initial operation led to the arrest of Mark under the first Preventive Detention Order secured by the CTU under the 2026 Emergency Powers Regulations.

Further intelligence gathering and follow-up operations later resulted in Guevarro’s arrest, with investigators alleging that both men were connected to a wider criminal network involved in trafficking and exploitation.

The two men appeared before Master of the High Court Kimitria Gray in the South Magisterial District on May 29, where bail was denied due to the seriousness of the allegations.

The Ministry of Homeland Security said investigations remain ongoing and additional charges are expected.

Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander described the operation as a significant step in the country’s fight against human trafficking.

“What took place under Operation Purple Ryain was more than an investigation; it was the restoration of safety, dignity and hope for vulnerable persons who had been subjected to exploitation and abuse,” Alexander said.

He praised the work of the Counter Trafficking Unit, police, defence force personnel, immigration officers and international law enforcement partners who assisted in the investigation.

Authorities said efforts continue to identify and prosecute all individuals connected to the alleged trafficking operation.