Five survivors from Sudbury, Ont., rescued in human trafficking investigation

Six people have been charged in a provincial human trafficking investigation that identified five survivors from Greater Sudbury.

‘Project Uptown,’ launched in October 2022, resulted in 81 charges against six suspects, Ontario Provincial Police said.

The five female victims were between the ages of 16 and 25, and three were underage when they were being trafficked, OPP spokesperson Andrew Taylor said in an email Thursday afternoon.

“Notably, during the investigation, investigators discovered a female victim had been trafficked throughout Ontario by eight separate male parties since 2014,” OPP said in a news release.

“Each accused employed different methods of exploitation and has been charged with additional crimes beyond human trafficking.”

The six suspects range in age from 34 to 45, including one woman. They were arrested in Burlington, Missisauga, Ottawa, Penetanguishene and St. Catharines.

Four of the accused are from Brampton while two others are from unknown addresses.

In addition to human trafficking-related charges, assault and online child sexual abuse material-related offences were also laid against two men in their 40s.

“Victims have been referred to dedicated victim services to ensure they receive continued support,” OPP said.

“The success of Project Uptown underscores the critical importance of cooperation among law enforcement partners in combating human trafficking.”

Police also seized more than 30 grams of various drugs, one firearm and $1,100 in cash during the operation.

More than a dozen local police agencies were involved in the investigation, including Anishinabek and Greater Sudbury police services, along with the OPP victim-centred approach team, digital forensics and the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada.

“North Simcoe Victim Services and Sudbury & Area Victim Services provided victim support and education,” OPP said.

“If you or someone you know is being trafficked, call your local police. The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking has resources available for victims and survivors of human trafficking on their website. A national hotline is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-833-900-1010.”