Over 40 missing children rescued in major U.S. anti-trafficking sting

More than 40 missing children, including infants as young as one year old, were rescued from suspected sex traffickers during a large-scale federal operation in the United States, according to authorities cited by the New York Post.

The U.S. Marshals Service said 43 “critically missing children” were recovered across 14 counties in northern Florida over a two-week operation dubbed Operation Northern Lights. The children ranged in age from 1 to 17 and were immediately provided physical and psychological care following their recovery.

“Because of the tireless dedication of the U.S. Marshals and our law enforcement partners, 43 endangered children will now be home safe for the holidays,” Greg Leljedal, acting U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Florida, said in a statement reported by the New York Post.

Authorities said nine individuals were arrested during the operation and could face additional charges related to human trafficking, child endangerment, and custodial interference. Some of the recovered children were also traced to neighboring states, including Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Homeland Security Investigations Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno said the operation demonstrated the importance of inter-agency cooperation, stressing that law enforcement would continue using all available resources to locate missing children and support affected families.

Officials described Operation Northern Lights as the most successful missing-child recovery effort ever conducted in northern Florida.