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Breaking the Sex Trafficking Ring

A young woman’s testimony sparks a transnational investigation, leading detectives to dismantle a sex trafficking network across Northern Ireland, Sweden and Romania.

In 2013, a young Romanian woman approaches the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) about a gang that had forced her into prostitution.

Former detective chief inspector Dougie Grant and detective inspector Rachel Miskelly of the Serious Crime Branch are tasked with investigating this challenging case. Their first priority is to identify other victims to gather crucial evidence and help them escape exploitation. But inside the brothels, fear and grooming have silenced vulnerable women, making the task almost impossible.

With determination, Rachel and Dougie turn to digital forensics and piece together the movement of victims across international borders. They recall how, in a groundbreaking human trafficking investigation, the PSNI join forces with Swedish authorities, Europol and Romanian law enforcement to bring the leaders of this organised crime gang to justice.

In Stockholm, Detective Per Hjort and public prosecutor Eva Wintzell share unique insights into evidence gathering through covert surveillance and wiretaps. Through this, they’re able to identify another victim and share intelligence to build a stronger case.

The most profound impact of this case is on the thirteen women who were rescued. Diane Hickey and Heather Woods from Women’s Aid shed light on their efforts to collaborate closely with police and support victims throughout the investigation and legal process.

11 months left to watch

58 minutes

Last on

Last Thursday 23:30

Credits

Role Contributor
Series Producer Ruth Mulcahy
Director Paddy Murray

Broadcasts