An anti-human trafficking operation carried out during Comic-Con International 2026 led to the arrest of 27 alleged sex buyers and the rescue of nine potential trafficking victims, including two minors, California authorities reported.

 

The operation, named Operation Iron Justice, was conducted from July 22 to 24 at multiple locations across San Diego County. Undercover investigators from the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force participated in the operation as part of an effort to reduce the demand for commercial sex during one of the region’s largest annual events.

 

According to the California Department of Justice, authorities identified and assisted seven adult victims and two juvenile victims. Among them was a 16-year-old girl from San Bernardino County who had previously been reported missing. Officials said all victims were offered support services, including shelter, counseling, medical assistance, and other resources.

 

California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that the demand for illegal commercial sex continues to drive human trafficking networks, while San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan emphasized that purchasing sex “is not a victimless crime.” She added that the illegal industry generates more than $810 million annually in San Diego County.

 

Authorities noted that similar operations are carried out during Comic-Con each year, as large gatherings can create conditions that traffickers may exploit to target vulnerable people. A similar operation during the 2025 convention resulted in 13 arrests.