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Ares left the library, but returned thirty minutes later. “We’re ready when you are. I thought, since our only active investigation is yours, you should handle the briefing.”
I nodded and followed him into the larger of the two sitting rooms. As he’d said, everyone was gathered, including Wren and Wilder.
“Welcome to those who’ve just arrived,” I said, looking over at the three men I hadn’t yet met. “I’ll get right to the point. The investigation we’ve titled Operation Purfleet is the first of such that will be conducted under the joint command of two of the UN Coalition Against Human Trafficking task forces—the US and the UK. Unfortunately, I’ve no doubt there will be more to come our way. In the meantime, we’ll focus our efforts on this one. Is there anyone who hasn’t yet reviewed the brief?”
When no one spoke up, I continued. “We’re currently working to track the routes of the two shipping containers intercepted in Godstone, as well as tracking the movement of the lorries’ owner via overheads. Cayman and Ares are looking into his finances, and a brief should be forthcoming.” I asked for questions again and continued when there were none.
“Our objectives for this investigation are multifold. First, we need to determine the origin of each of the two containers. Our theory is they did not come from the same place. Then we need to determine who trafficked the victims initially, with the ultimate goal being to take down the ring or rings. After that, to make a final determination as to who should be held responsible for the deaths of the victims.”
“Excuse me,” said Ares when his mobile rang. I watched him leave the room.
“Perhaps we should wait to continue,” I said to those still seated.
“Hey, Cayman. I like your style,” said Zeppelin, who was sitting on one of the purple sofas.
“My mum is the interior designer in the family.”
Moments later, Ares returned. His eyes met mine, forehead furrowed. “As you said a few minutes ago, there was no doubt additional investigations would be forthcoming.”
“Go ahead,” I said, taking a seat and motioning for him to address the group.
14
ARES
“Ijust got off a call with Doc Butler,” I began. “He received intel on a trafficking ring operating out of the Port of Yavaros in Sonora, Mexico. According to him, there may be at least one container scheduled to depart in the coming week. He’s forwarding the brief now, although there isn’t much in it beyond what I’ve just told you.”
“How credible is the report?” Zeppelin asked.
“Knowing it came through Doc should answer your question.”
“True enough,” he responded.
I turned to Nem. “At this point, I’d like to suggest we divide into two teams. One will remain on Operation Purfleet, and the other will focus on Yavaros.”
“Agreed.”
“Give us a few minutes?” I said to those in the room before looking back at her.
She stood and followed me through the kitchen to another part of the house.
After entering the library, I closed the door behind us and lowered the same screen I had earlier. “Do you want to hook up, or should I?”
“I can,” she offered, walking over to plug her laptop in.
“So, two teams. For now, should we refer to them as Purfleet and Yavaros?” I asked.
“Yes.”
She created a spreadsheet with two columns, putting herself at the top of one and me, the other.
“I’m going to suggest you and I trade. Tank, Blackjack, and Atticus would be strongest on your investigation.”
“Why’s that?” she asked.
“All three have extensive NRO experience. In addition, Blackjack did a few tours with the CIA’s Special Activities Division.”
“Makes sense. What about Yavaros?”
