Human trafficking is a grave issue affecting vulnerable populations worldwide. In California, this modern-day form of slavery thrives due to various factors, including transnational criminal organizations and domestic gangs. Let’s delve into five notorious human trafficking gangs operating within the state, along with relevant statistical data.
MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha)
MS-13 is an international criminal gang with roots in El Salvador. It has a significant presence in California, particularly in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
Activities: MS-13 engages in human trafficking, drug trafficking, extortion, and violence.
Victims: The gang targets vulnerable immigrants, especially young girls and women.
18th Street Gang (Barrio 18)
The 18th Street Gang is another notorious transnational gang operating in California. Besides drug trafficking and violence, the gang is involved in human trafficking. Young girls and women are at risk of falling prey to their exploitation. The 18th Street Gang contributes to both sex trafficking and forced labor cases. Their network extends across borders, making them a formidable threat.
Sureños (Southern California Gangs)
Sureños are a coalition of Southern California street gangs affiliated with the Mexican Mafia. They engage in various criminal enterprises, including human trafficking. Immigrants, especially those from Central America, are vulnerable targets. Sureños play a significant role in sex trafficking within California. Their influence extends beyond state borders.
Norteños (Northern California Gangs)
Norteños are rivals of the Sureños and operate in Northern California. Alongside drug trafficking, they participate in human trafficking networks. Young women and girls are at risk of exploitation. Norteños contribute to both sex trafficking and forced labor cases. Their criminal activities span urban and rural areas.
Asian Organized Crime Syndicates
Various Asian criminal syndicates operate in California, trafficking victims from Asia and other regions. These syndicates engage in sex trafficking, forced labor, and debt bondage. Immigrants from Asian countries are often trapped in their networks. Asian crime syndicates contribute significantly to sex trafficking cases. Their operations involve complex networks and recruitment strategies.
Statistical Insights
- California ranks 7th in the United States for human trafficking incidents.
- Approximately 3.8 trafficking victims per 100,000 civilians reside in California, totaling over 1,500 victims.
- Young girls and women constitute 57.6% of forced labor victims and 99.4% of sex trafficking victims.
- Transnational criminal organizations and domestic gangs have expanded their criminal portfolios to include human trafficking.
- Federal courts in California handled 57 active criminal human trafficking cases in 2019, ranking the state 2nd in the nation for the number of active cases.
As law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to combat these criminal networks, it is crucial to raise awareness, support victims, and dismantle these trafficking operations. California’s fight against human trafficking remains ongoing, and collaboration among agencies, businesses, and communities is essential to protect vulnerable individuals and uphold their basic human rights.
Reference: etactics.com, oag.ca.gov, traffickinginstitute.org