As part of the FIFA World Cup, a multi-agency operation called “Operation Red Card” concluded with the arrest of six men in Rhode Island, accused of seeking to engage in commercial sex acts, child exploitation, and other activities associated with human trafficking. The operation was led by the Rhode Island State Police, in coordination with the Massachusetts State Police, the FBI, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

According to authorities, major international sporting events, while bringing significant economic and cultural benefits to host cities, can also create opportunities for traffickers and those who exploit vulnerable populations. Among those arrested was a 34-year-old man from Rehoboth, Massachusetts, who was arraigned in federal court and is being held without bail, while other suspects were arraigned and released on personal recognizance.

This operation did not stand alone. In parallel, the FBI’s Boston office, through its Child Exploitation–Human Trafficking Task Force, arrested seven Massachusetts men between June 12 and June 16 on charges including sex for a fee with a child under 18, enticement of a child under 16, and attempted rape of a child. Together, both operations resulted in thirteen arrests across the New England region.

Additionally, the U.S. Marshals Service carried out “Operation Yellow Card,” which led to the safe recovery of 35 high-risk missing children from Massachusetts, some of whom were located as far away as Georgia and Texas. These cases show the national reach of the preventive efforts tied to the World Cup, beyond the direct arrests for exploitation.

Authorities emphasize that human trafficking often occurs in plain sight and urge the public to remain vigilant for signs of individuals who appear controlled, coerced, or unable to speak freely. Anyone with concerns can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, available 24/7, with confidential assistance.