Two non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have reported a rise in the number of illegally trafficked underage female virgins in Colombia’s second city, Medellin.
Angela Maria Jaramillo Burgos, researcher at the women’s NGO Vamos Mujer, noted an alarming increase in the trade of young women’s bodies, Caracol Radio reported Wednesday.
Traffickers reportedly look for young girls of around 11 or 12 years of age, in order to sell their virginity and ultimately lead them into a life of prostitution.
According to the same research, contributed to by a second women’s NGO, Mujeres que Crecen, 65% of rapes in Medellin are committed by relatives of the victims, particularly in the case of children.