Prosecutor for Human Trafficking and Exploitation of the Public Ministry

Brief Description

The Prosecutor for Human Trafficking and Exploitation of the Public Ministry (PROTEX) acts at different stages of judicial processes, collaborating so that cases reach the justice administration system and have a favorable resolution, and especially in cases that culminated in convictions of criminal groups dedicated to human trafficking. In 2021, they have actively participated in debates in 10 cases, and in the oral trial of 4 very particular cases (3 of which ended in convictions; and one is awaiting a verdict); and collaborates and intervenes in another 30 cases pending the date of debate. The PROTEX also performs preliminary investigations, to ensure more cases reach the judicial system (200 preliminary investigations were initiated during 2021, 50% of which have been already prosecuted). The PROTEX works as a liaison between hotline 145 - the national complaint line for cases of trafficking in persons or related crimes - and different dependencies of the judicial system and administrative agencies, nationally.