The Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) of the Ministry of Homeland Security has laid a total of twenty-nine (29) criminal charges against two Trinidad and Tobago nationals in connection with “Operation Purple Ryain,” the intelligence-led human trafficking investigation which resulted in the Unit’s first Preventive Detention Orders (PDOs) under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2026
Read full statement below:
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – The Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) of the Ministry of Homeland Security has laid a total of twenty-nine (29) criminal charges against two Trinidad and Tobago nationals in connection with “Operation Purple Ryain,” the intelligence-led human trafficking investigation which resulted in the Unit’s first Preventive Detention Orders (PDOs) under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2026. Charged on Tuesday 26 May, 2026, were:
Ryan Anthony Mark, 46, who faces eighteen (18) charges; and
Sherwyn Marlon Guevarro, 44, who faces eleven (11) charges.
The charges include multiple offences under the Trafficking in Persons Act, Chap. 12:10, including the alleged harbouring of two adult and two minor victims for the purpose of exploitation. The accused also face several serious allegations under the Children Act and Sexual Offences Act, including sexual penetration of female children, causing a child to engage in sexual activity and buggery.
Additional charges laid against one of the accused include allegations of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession and confiscation of identification documents, transporting a person for the purpose of exploitation of that person’s prostitution, administering dangerous drugs to a child, and money laundering related offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
The charges stem from coordinated operations and follow-up investigations conducted in Rio Claro under “Operation Purple Ryain,” which was launched after intelligence received through INTERPOL indicated the existence of a suspected human trafficking network operating in the area. The operation reflects the increasing use of intelligence-sharing, international cooperation and inter-agency coordination in identifying and disrupting transnational criminal activity.
On 7 March 2026, officers of the Counter Trafficking Unit executed a search warrant at a premises along Fraser Street, Rio Claro, where eleven Venezuelan nationals were located. Subsequent screening and investigative interviews resulted in four persons, including two minors, being formally identified as Victims of Trafficking (VoTs). Investigators uncovered evidence suggesting prolonged exploitation, physical abuse, confinement and other forms of violence against the victims.
The initial operation resulted in the arrest and detention of Ryan Anthony Mark under the first Preventive Detention Order obtained by the CTU under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2026. Further intelligence gathering and targeted operational activity subsequently led to the arrest of Sherwyn Marlon Guevarro, who was also detained under a Preventive Detention Order as investigators worked to dismantle what is believed to be a broader criminal network engaged in trafficking and exploitation.
Both accused appeared before Master of the High Court, Ms. Kimitria Gray, sitting in the South Magisterial District on Friday 29 May, 2026, where, due to the serious nature of the cases, bail was denied for both men. The matter remains before the courts.
The Ministry of Homeland Security commends the Authorized Officers of the Counter Trafficking Unit, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, Immigration Division personnel, and all supporting agencies whose coordinated efforts contributed to the advancement of this significant investigation. The Ministry also acknowledges the critical role played by international law enforcement cooperation and intelligence-sharing partners in supporting the investigation.
Minister of Homeland Security, the Honourable Roger Alexander M.P. noted that the progression of the investigation reflects Trinidad and Tobago’s continued commitment to combatting trafficking in persons through decisive inter-agency action.
He emphasized, “What took place under Operation Purple Ryain was more than an investigation, it was the restoration of safety, dignity and hope for vulnerable persons who had been subjected to exploitation and abuse. The officers involved demonstrated the kind of professionalism, coordination and resolve required to confront organized criminal networks, and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago remains fully committed to supporting those efforts at every level.”
Additional persons are expected to be charged as investigations remain ongoing.
The Counter Trafficking Unit continues to pursue all investigative leads and remains committed to ensuring that those responsible for trafficking and exploitation are identified and held accountable under the law.
Members of the public are reminded that human trafficking is a serious organized crime which disproportionately targets vulnerable persons, including women and children. Anyone with information relating to suspected trafficking in persons is encouraged to contact the Counter Trafficking Unit via the toll-free hotline at 800-4CTU (4288) or through the CTU WhatsApp reporting line at +868-702-0467.
Human trafficking is a crime against human dignity. Together, we can identify victims, disrupt traffickers and protect the vulnerable.