3 accused of running large human trafficking ring out of apartments

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Federal prosecutors said they've broken up a large human trafficking ring.

Agents raided two apartments at a complex off Global Forum Boulevard in Gwinnett County.

“Detectives came in from every direction. They put up caution tape,” neighbor Ramiro Myorga said.

Several women were rescued, and prosecutors said they recovered evidence of commercial sex trade.

“I had an idea something like this was going on, but I just couldn’t put my finger on it,” Myorga said.

A federal indictment accuses Xiohong Huang, Chang Kong Chow and Biyung Gong of recruiting women of Asian descent and forcing them to work as prostitutes. The indictment alleges the ring had been operating since 2005.

Myorga said he saw men coming and going from the apartments.

“I constantly saw older Asian men down here smoking, walking in and out, new faces and it didn’t make me feel good at all,” he said.

The FBI also raided a home in Johns Creek where at least one of the suspects lived.

“It’s really scary. I think you should get to know your neighbors more,” Padamasree Balabhadreapatrela said.

“It’s a sad and sobering reminder that sex trafficking is happening here,” said Bob Rodgers, the CEO of Streetgrace, an organization that works to fight sex trafficking.

Court filings show prosecutors are asking a judge to help them track down several of the alleged prostitutes as material witnesses in the case.

Channel 2's Mike Petchenik has contacted the attorneys for the suspects, but has not heard back.

Cox Media Group