Human trafficking across multiple provinces leads to arrest of Brampton resident

An investigation into human trafficking in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia has led to the arrests of two people including a resident of Brampton.

The multi-province investigation started nearly a year ago when the OPP says police began looking into reports of suspected human trafficking in eastern Ontario

The operation was dubbed Project Nebula and included investigators from Ontario including the OPP Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, Quebec, the RCMP, Alberta and the Canada Border Services Agency.

Police say three female victims were identified and that a 45-year-old Brampton resident and a 33-year-old from Sydney, Nova Scotia on July 9.

The accused have not been named and face a combined 36 charges including 17 human trafficking charges.

“The victims in this investigation have been referred to dedicated victim services to ensure they receive continued support,” the OPP said in a release. “The success of Project Nebula underscores the critical importance of cooperation among law enforcement partners in combating human trafficking.”

The OPP says a publication ban has been issued in relation to the arrests and no further information about the investigation will be released.

Anyone with information about this incident can contact the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may also be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.