On January 12, 2024, the Phnom Penh Anti Human Trafficking and Juvenile Protection Unit rescued two sisters, aged 11 and 15, from a sex trafficking situation. They acted on a tip-off from the child protection NGO, APLE.
APLE supported police investigations to identify possible victims and collect evidence for prosecution. Following their rescue, the two girls were referred to a safe center for rehabilitation. APLE facilitated crisis intervention support for the girl victims, addressing their immediate needs and emotional well-being.
The district department of social affairs stepped in as a temporary guardian and filed a complaint since neither parent was available. To further support the case, APLE worked with the police to identify and hold accountable all the individuals involved.