A couple is expected to appear in court today to face charges under the Trafficking In Persons Act. The couple is also facing sexual assault charges.

San Fernando police, following an investigation, held the woman and her common law husband. It is said they exploited and sexually assaulted a Venezuelan woman. The matter was reported to police in February.

In a statement the Ministry of National Security says after weeks of investigations the couple was arrested and charged. The charges include receiving a Venezuelan woman for the purpose of exploitation, and committing grievous sexual assault.

According to the Ministry this brings to 30 the number of victims rescued by the Counter Trafficking Unit since it was activated in 2013. It says to date; 18 Trinidad and Tobago nationals have been charged with human trafficking or related offenses.