Kyrgyzstan neutralizes transnational criminal group involved in child trafficking

Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (SCNS) has neutralized a transnational criminal group involved in the illegal adoption and sale of children abroad. The group, which included both Kyrgyz nationals and foreigners, had been active since 2022 and used bribery and manipulation to gain custody of children from socially vulnerable families before illegally transporting them out of the country for sale.

As part of ongoing investigative and operational measures, SCNS reported that on September 20, key leaders of the group were arrested and placed in the SCNS detention center. Investigations are ongoing to identify additional members of the group and those who helped facilitate these activities.

Child trafficking remains a major problem in Kyrgyzstan, with the country serving as both a source and transit point for human trafficking. Children are often victims of illegal adoption or sexual exploitation. Criminal groups exploit weaknesses in the system by targeting socially vulnerable families and using corrupt connections to gain custody of children.

Tackling the problem of child trafficking in Kyrgyzstan is hampered by limited resources and insufficient coordination between law enforcement agencies and social services. These gaps complicate efforts to prevent human trafficking and respond effectively to cases when they arise. International organizations have also highlighted the need for better migration controls, as child trafficking often involves transporting minors out of the country.

The Kyrgyz government is working with international organizations, including the United Nations and Interpol, to tackle human trafficking. However, further efforts are needed to strengthen law enforcement capacities and implement preventive measures that address the root causes of human trafficking, especially among vulnerable populations.