Homeland Security Investigations says federal agents in Kansas City arrested 14 people, recovered eight missing children, and seized more than $435,000 in counterfeit World Cup merchandise during the tournament.
Officials said the operation required about a year of preparation and included an increased presence at places such as the FIFA Fan Festival and other World Cup venues. Since the tournament began, agents have focused much of their work on combating human trafficking, including identifying nine trafficking victims and recovering eight missing children.
Agents said many of the recovered children were runaways who had been reported missing by family members or care providers and later ended up on the streets or with traffickers; they also said most of the children recovered were teenagers, including several from the Kansas City metro area. They urged people attending World Cup events to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
HSI also collected fake World Cup jerseys, T-shirts, and flags. The agency said the counterfeit items will be destroyed or, if deemed safe and appropriate, donated through approved channels to countries where clothing is in short supply.