I don't understand how people can use a joyous and collaborative sporting event like the FIFA World Cup to coordinate the trafficking of humans. But the Department of Homeland Security Investigations arm (HSI) knew these networks would be hard at work during the championship games, and specifically targeted host cities in order to thwart the organized crime networks that take advantage of temporary personnel, stretched local law enforcement, disorganized crowds, and the extra distractions that seek to enhance the sporting event.
In Kansas City, Missouri, on Wednesday, HSI saved eight children from traffickers and arrested 14 alleged perpetrators.
Federal agents have been working behind the scenes to keep the FIFA World Cup safe as thousands of fans have celebrated in Kansas City.
Officials with Homeland Security Investigations said they spent about a year preparing for the tournament and have maintained an increased presence at locations including the FIFA Fan Festival and other World Cup venues.
"We have people working seven days a week, 12 to 16 hours per day. But we get the mission done," said Richard Sabatini, acting special agent in charge of HSI Kansas City.
Sabatini said the biggest challenge came long before the first match kicked off.
"I think the hardest part was just getting to this point, the planning over month after month, week after week," he said.
Since the tournament began, HSI has focused much of its work on combating human trafficking.
Agents said they have arrested 14 people, identified nine victims of human trafficking and recovered eight missing children.
"Unfortunately, most of these children are runaways and reported missing from their families or care providers, but they end up on the streets or with these traffickers," Sabatini said.
They said most of the children recovered were teenagers, and several were from the Kansas City metro area.
"We find them every day, so the best thing that we can do is have people keep an eye on your kids," Sabatini said.
WATCH:
EIGHT MISSING CHILDREN RESCUED.
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) July 10, 2026
During the World Cup, @HSIKansasCity have been working every single day to combat human trafficking and arrest suspected traffickers.
Thank you to these heroes for your work to save these children. pic.twitter.com/kd8TaTdVnK
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Just as legitimate businesses capitalize on the increased people traffic, so do nefarious and illicit ones, and too often they go hand-in-hand.
Common industries that involve the exploitation of vulnerable individuals include hospitality, construction, illicit massage businesses, escort services, and adult content production. The chaos of events and large influx of people mask the reality that exploitation is happening and makes detection significantly more challenging during these high-traffic periods.
HSI is also targeting counterfeit merchandise in its sweeps.
HSI also cracked down on counterfeit merchandise during the tournament, collecting more than $435,000 worth of fake World Cup jerseys, T-shirts and flags.
According to Sabatini, the counterfeit items will either be destroyed or, if deemed safe and appropriate, donated through approved channels to countries where clothing is in short supply.
While the Kansas City matches are coming to a close, the work of HSI continues. As FBI Director Kash Patel often says, law enforcement relies on human detection to help combat crimes. Locals paying attention and pointing out what is out of place is sometimes the best intelligence.
"We're almost there. There's light at the end of the tunnel, but we have a few more," he said.
HSI is encouraging anyone attending World Cup events to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
"If you see something, say something."
Another example of how this HSI is next-level in terms of its work to protect Americans and the visitors to its shores through combating this underbelly of crime and trafficking.
Editor’s Note: The 2026 Midterms will determine the fate of President Trump’s America First agenda. Republicans must maintain control of both chambers of Congress.
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