Issue Date: 06/11/2025
An Garda Síochána participated in an EMPACT (European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats) joint-action operation against labour exploitation between 20th and 28th September 2025.
The operation was executed alongside participating European law enforcement authorities and Europol. This operation was focused on labour exploitation and was a multi-agency approach.
Gardaí attached to the Human Trafficking Investigation and Co-ordination Unit (HTICU) and Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) were accompanied by representatives from the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Protection while conducting inspections.
During the course of the operation a total of 148 locations were inspected. 537 people from 39 different nationalities were interviewed. No human trafficking offences were disclosed in this jurisdiction.
As a result of these inspections correspondence was issued to individuals about their immigration status in Ireland.
Human trafficking is the trade of humans for the purpose of forced labour, sexual slavery, or commercial sexual exploitation for the trafficker or others.
An Garda Síochána will continue to work closely with Europol and other law enforcement partners in the identification of new victims so they can also be removed from harm.
An Garda Síochána appeals to any person who may be the victim of human trafficking or sexual exploitation to come forward and speak with them, either at a local Garda station, or to call the Garda Confidential Phone Number on 1800 666 111.
An Garda Síochána appeals to any person with any information on these heinous crimes or suspects to come forward. Any contacts with An Garda Síochána will be treated in the utmost confidence.
Further details on human trafficking and sexual exploitation can be found at www.blueblindfold.ie
