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Lawmen tighten noose on prostitution in NMI
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Posted on Jan 21 2005
Local authorities arrested at least eight alleged sex workers Thursday night in front of a shopping facility in Garapan.
Acting Gov. Diego T. Benavente said yesterday that he himself took part in the anti-prostitution operation that night.
“Several ladies were arrested,” he said, noting that police and immigration officials had properly secured warrants of arrest before the operation.
Benavente initially chaired the anti-prostitution task force when it was formed in 2002. This campaign is now handled primarily by the Attorney General’s Office.
“This is our first priority when we got elected into office. This [prostitution] is an issue with our tourists, who claim of harassment on the streets,” said Benavente.
Several Chinese-looking women were seen fleeing in groups to certain establishments in Garapan during the night. They were seen running in and out of an apartment located beside a Chinese restaurant in the commercial district. They fled to the establishment at least three times.
The ladies, totaling about 20, would be dropped off by designated cars. After a few minutes, however, the cars would return to fetch the individuals.
“The authorities know these activities and they are closing in. We’re determined to eradicate this problem,” said Benavente.
The AGO criminal division office said that it has warned certain establishments being alleged as fronts for the illicit sex trade that they face possible criminal prosecution.
At least three shops have reportedly been issued a 60-day notice to stop suspected prostitution activities.
Last Tuesday, lawmen reportedly arrested seven female alien workers for allegedly offering sexual favors for a fee.
The arrests came following the issuance of court warrants sought by Immigration agents, who have been conducting surveillance operations in the area since October 2004.
