Review on the Detection of Persons in Cargo and Transport Vehicles

The present paper provides an analysis of the technologies used for the detection of persons hidden in cargo vehicles and containers, in the context of preventing human trafficking. The need for effective control at border points is highlighted, given the transnational nature of these crimes and the major humanitarian impact. The study reviews three major categories of technologies: sensors for the detection of volatile compounds (CO₂, VOCs), imaging technologies (X-rays, terahertz, thermal), as well as systems for detecting vibrations generated by the human body. Each method is analysed from the perspective of operational advantages, technical limitations and conditions of applicability. It also stresses the importance of a multimodal approach combining multiple technologies into an integrated system to maximise accuracy and minimise false alarms. The paper argues that the future of effective detection of hidden persons is based on technological interoperability, standardization, portability, and compliance with ethical and legal norms. Thus, an applied research direction is proposed oriented towards smart, fast and sustainable solutions, capable of meeting the current requirements of border security.