A man identified as Teddy Mejia was arrested in Dubai on charges of human trafficking and child sexual abuse, with over 100 victims, including minors, affected. Mejia is part of a seven-member syndicate, according to authorities. The group allegedly used the messaging app Telegram to target victims and distribute explicit videos of their abuse.
DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos stated, “Isang notoryus at walang-awang big-time child trafficker na nambibiktima ng daan-daang batang Pilipino ang naaresto sa UAE. Sa ating pakikipag-ugnayan at sa tulong ng pamahalaan ng UAE, ang child trafficker na ito ay ating ibabalik sa Pilipinas bukas.”
Abalos emphasized that this arrest is a significant step in the government’s fight against human trafficking and in protecting Filipino children from exploitation. He also sent a stern warning to those who prey on minors, stating, “Wala kayong ligtas na taguan; kahit saan man kayo pumunta tiyak na haharap kayo sa batas upang manaig ang hustisya.”
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to dismantle the syndicate and provide support to the victims.