FBI agents in South-east Asia used prostitutes, watchdog says
FBI agents stationed abroad engaged in sexual activities with prostitutes in countries like Cambodia, the Philippines, and Thailand, all while some bureau employees were attending training sessions aimed at combating human trafficking, according to a Justice Department investigation. This report, released on March 27 following a lawsuit from The New York Times, details misconduct occurring from 2009 to 2018, revealing a troubling culture among the FBI personnel overseas that allowed for the exploitation of vulnerable women.
The investigation uncovered instances where FBI employees not only paid for sex but also partook in social outings with local police, demonstrating a disregard for the agency's commitment to fighting human trafficking. This was highlighted during FBI engagements in various countries—significantly, in 2017, officials in Bangkok negotiated for sex while attending an event that coincided with anti-trafficking training led by U.S. authorities, raising questions about the integrity of such initiatives.
Reports indicate that in 2018, FBI employees in Manila accepted prostitutes who were funded by a local law enforcement agency. Earlier findings had already identified misconduct, leading to the recall of several agents from Asia while investigations were underway. The inspector general's summary revealed that multiple agents solicited sex while overseas, indicating a failure of oversight within the bureau.
The FBI has consistently emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards prostitution, which is illegal in the countries mentioned. Despite this, several agents violated not only local laws but also an official directive from the Justice Department issued after previous scandals involving other agencies. In 2021, the investigation revealed that five employees resigned or were removed as a result of their actions, bringing additional scrutiny to the conduct of law enforcement personnel abroad.
This is not the first time U.S. law enforcement agencies have faced allegations of impropriety overseas. Earlier incidents involving the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Secret Service had also drawn significant public attention and led to policy changes. The recent FBI revelations, however, underscore ongoing issues of accountability within the agency, prompting renewed calls for reforms as it seeks to restore its reputation amid ongoing investigations.