Rescue Operation During World Cup

On June 22, during the 2026 World Cup, federal agents successfully rescued eight missing children in a human trafficking operation in Kansas City, Missouri.

The operation was led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Kansas City, which focused on identifying individuals looking to exploit minors. Various agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and North Kansas City Police Department, collaborated on this initiative.

Throughout the operation, authorities rescued the missing children, arrested 14 suspects, and identified nine victims of human trafficking. Among those arrested were Jason Gruey and Curtis Ray Gibson, both charged with attempted child enticement and possession of child pornography.

Furthermore, investigators obtained electronic devices for forensic analysis.

Rick Sabatini, acting special agent in charge of HSI Kansas City, shared insights on the operation, emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships in tackling human trafficking. He pointed out that the cooperation with local law enforcement was crucial in safeguarding communities and prosecuting offenders. “We are sending a clear message that exploitation will not be tolerated,” he stated.

Most of the children recovered were teenagers from the Kansas City area, with some having fled or gone missing prior to being located by authorities. Sabatini advised vigilance, encouraging the public to keep an eye on children, as this issue persists daily.

This rescue wasn’t an isolated event during the World Cup. Earlier, on June 11, a different operation in Massachusetts led to the recovery of 35 missing children, reinforcing ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable minors from trafficking and exploitation during the tournament.

Both ICE and the Department of Homeland Security were contacted for comments regarding the June 22 operation but did not respond immediately.