Officers from the Serious Crimes Unit have made a significant breakthrough following a four-month investigation into human trafficking.
After extensive investigative efforts, interviews, and consultation with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), charges were laid against OREN WALKIN on March 19, 2025, and MARIA ALEXANDER PINEDA DE WALKIN on March 20, 2025.
The duo are charged as follows:
OREN WALKIN, 50, of South Dock Road, Providenciales:
∙ Six (6) counts of Trafficking in Persons
∙ One (1) count of Keeping a Brothel Used for Prostitution
MARIA ALEXANDER PINEDA DE WALKIN, also known as KASANDRA, 45, of South Dock Road:
∙ Six (6) counts of Trafficking in Persons
∙ One (1) count of Controlling Prostitution for Gain
∙ One (1) count of Keeping a Brothel Used for Prostitution
Both accused remain in custody and will appear before a Magistrate tomorrow (25th March).
Police Operation and Investigation
On October 3, 2024, acting on intelligence, officers proceeded to a bar along South Dock Road. They executed an authority to search for firearms along with a search warrant in relation to human trafficking paraphernalia, receipts, books, and other records. During the operation, several items were seized.
In addition, twenty (20) women of Colombian and Dominican nationalities, suspected to be victims of human trafficking, were discovered at the establishment.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force wishes to state that this case represents a major step forward in the fight against human trafficking in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Our officers remain committed to identifying, investigating, dismantling and prosecuting those who seek to exploit vulnerable individuals for personal gain. We will continue working closely with our partners to ensure justice is served.
We encourage persons with information related to human trafficking to come forward and report it confidentially. Notify the closest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information anonymously.