Authorities rescued four women, including two minors, and arrested a security guard of a hotel for alleged trafficking in persons in Iligan City.

Police said the 44-year-old suspect allegedly acted as a contact person and allegedly arranged sexual activities involving the victims.

One of the adult victims, too, was found to be the contact person of the security guard.

Investigators said the guard was arrested previously for alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

The entrapment operation was launched by the Iligan City Police Office Task Force against Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and the City Social Welfare and Development Office at the hotel where the suspect works.

Seized during the operation were pieces of evidence, including a cellphone and P6,000 cash.

The suspect was taken to the police station and will face charges for violation of the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Director, Brigadier General Ricardo Layug Jr., has reiterated the police’s commitment to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.

“Let this achievement serve as a reminder of our duty to uphold justice and safeguard human rights. We must continue to be vigilant, proactive, and relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to exploit and harm others. Our commitment to combating trafficking in persons remains steadfast, and we will use all available resources to bring perpetrators to justice,” Layug said.