A human trafficking network is believed to be behind the disappearance of 5-year-old Loan Peña, who went missing from Paraje Algarrobar in the town of 9 de Julio, Corrientes province, on Thursday, June 13. Initially, it was reported that Loan had gone missing while searching for fruits with his uncle Antonio Benitez and other family friends in an orange grove near his grandmother’s house. However, inconsistencies in the accounts of the events further complicated the investigation.
As investigators continued their search, they discovered traces of Loan’s scent in the vehicles of municipal officials Victoria Caillava and her husband, Carlos Pérez. The couple was accused of participating in a human trafficking scheme that led to Loan’s abduction. The involvement of several individuals raised concerns about a potential network responsible for the child’s disappearance.
Disturbing details emerged about the suspects’ actions following Loan’s disappearance, indicating a deliberate effort to obstruct the search for him. Prosecutors Castillo and Barry reclassified the case as a possible human trafficking incident and transferred it to national justice for further investigation. However, despite efforts by investigators and international counterparts, the whereabouts of Loan remain unknown. His father José Peña expressed suspicion towards those present at the lunch where his son went missing, suggesting that some may have received payment for facilitating his abduction.
The case has captured Argentina’s attention as investigators continue their efforts to locate Loan and bring those responsible for his disappearance to justice.
