Six months after the Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) launched Operation Purple Ryain in Rio Claro, the ongoing investigation has resulted in a third suspect being charged.
On Monday 14 September, 2026, CTU officers arrested Semonne Mark, 40, of Rio Claro, who was formally charged today, Wednesday 16 September, 2026, with five offences under the Trafficking in Persons Act, Chap. 12:10.
Mark faces four counts of Trafficking in Persons by Harbouring, involving three adults and one minor, and one count of Trafficking in Persons by Transporting a Minor.
Operation Purple Ryain began on 07 March 2026 following intelligence received through INTERPOL and weeks of surveillance by CTU officers. The operation resulted in the rescue of four Victims of Trafficking, including two minors, with subsequent investigations leading to additional arrests and charges.
Operation Purple Ryain remains active, with the CTU continuing to pursue every lead and investigate all persons alleged to have been involved in the exploitation of victims.
Members of the public with information on suspected human trafficking are encouraged to contact the CTU at 800-4CTU (4288) or via WhatsApp at +1 (868) 702-0467.