Five people are under arrest in Houston in connection with a kidnapping and human smuggling ring. The suspects are accused of holding 18 people, including two women, for ransom inside a stash house for most of the month. Police say some of the captives were forced to be sex slaves. Cocaine and cash were also seized.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner says the case was uncovered thanks to a tip from a resident. Turner said, "if you see something, let me encourage people to say something. When you see activity that is taking place out of the norm, do not hesitate to report it." Turner went on to say, "often times the information you provide can lead to the arrest of people acting contrary to the laws of the city of Houston."
Photo: Houston Police