Hundreds Detained in Atlanta During World Cup Trafficking Sweep

WHO:

WSB-TV - Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Steven Schrank

FEDagent - Acting U.S. Marshal for the District of New Jersey Nicholas Ricigliano

FEDagent - 20-year-old Jaheed Fields, wanted for murder and attempted murder

WHAT:

WSB-TV - Operation Red Card resulted in 153 arrests across metro Atlanta during the World Cup.

WSB-TV - 13 people were accused of human trafficking, and 11 people were accused of child exploitation.

WSB-TV - More than 100 others faced charges ranging from pandering to drugs, weapons, and outstanding warrants.

FEDagent - A total of 383 fugitives were arrested across two operations in New Jersey, including 107 known gang members and 48 convicted sex offenders.

FEDagent - 28 illegal firearms and over $95,000 in cash were seized during the operations.

FEDagent - Operation Red Card identified 54 possible victims of human trafficking, with 25 accepting services and assistance.

WHERE:

WSB-TV - Metro Atlanta, Georgia

FEDagent - New Jersey, including locations hosting World Cup matches

WHEN:

FEDagent - The operations were conducted in the runup to and during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

WHY:

WSB-TV - The operation aimed to protect the community against human trafficking and child exploitation during the World Cup.

FEDagent - The operations aimed to enhance public safety and pursue individuals posing threats to the community.

HOW:

WSB-TV - Undercover operations were conducted in hotels, parking lots, and businesses where suspects believed they were meeting women or underage girls for sex.

FEDagent - The U.S. Marshals Service used intelligence analysis, investigative leads, and targeted enforcement strategies in the operations.

(UPDATED July 24, 2026 01:29 UTC)

In a significant crackdown during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Operation Red Card led to 153 arrests in metro Atlanta, with charges including human trafficking and child exploitation. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, authorities arrested a total of 383 fugitives, including 107 gang members and 48 convicted sex offenders, while seizing 28 illegal firearms and over $95,000 in cash. The operations, which involved undercover efforts in hotels and businesses, aimed to enhance public safety and protect the community from individuals posing threats.