Sex Trafficking Bust in Anchorage & Mat-Su Valley

0:00It's April 16th. This is Anchorage News Today, powered by AI. Law enforcement agencies just wrapped up a major operation, targeting suspected sex trafficking in Anchorage and the Matsu Valley. Teens from the Anchorage Police Department, Alaska State Troopers, FBI, and others hit seven illicit massage parlors with search warrants, plus two, residences. The spots included places like Jasmine Spa and Zen Massage in Anchorage, along with stream health spa up in Whicilla, and a few others around town. This coordinated effort aimed to shut down what investigators believed were fronts for human exploitation. Seven folks got arrested in the sweep, charged with second and third degree sex trafficking. Ages ranged from 34 to 72, and officials are now reaching out to potential victims, hooking them up with support from government and non-profit groups. Investigators say they're still piecing things together, identifying more victims and building cases. A press conference with the Troopers, Police and FBI is set for Thursday at 10 a.m. to break

1:04down the full operation. We'll keep eyes on this as details emerge. Trafficking hits close to home, and these busts send a clear message.