Photo credit: Benhur Abalos

In a significant win against human trafficking, authorities have arrested a suspected child trafficker who allegedly preyed on hundreds of Filipino children. Thanks to the cooperation between the Philippine government and the United Arab Emirates, the suspect is scheduled to be brought back to the Philippines.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos confirmed the arrest of Teddy Jay Mojeca Mejia, a trafficker accused of involvement in the sale of child sexual abuse materials. Mejia, who fled to Dubai in 2021, is believed to have victimized over 100 Filipino children.

The capture of Mejia is being hailed as a major milestone in the government’s relentless fight to protect children from exploitation. "To those heartless individuals who prey on minors, know this: there is no safe haven for you. No matter where you go, the law will catch up with you, and justice will prevail," declared Secretary Abalos.

With Mejia’s return to the Philippines, authorities are determined to bring him to justice and continue their efforts to safeguard the country’s youth from further harm.