Today (Jul 30), on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Ontario’s Provincial Human Trafficking Intelligence-Led Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS) announced major enforcement results following 18 months of investigations across the province.
The IJFS, made up of several police agencies, coordinated proactive operations aimed at individuals attempting to purchase sex from minors or exploited persons. Officers posed as vulnerable youth to disrupt illegal activity and reduce demand for commercial sexual exploitation.
These efforts led to 80 arrests and 165 Criminal Code charges.
“Human trafficking thrives in silence. We must target both traffickers and those fueling demand,” said Acting Detective Inspector Dan Dusto, IJFS Lead. “Our goal is to dismantle networks and support survivors.”
Human trafficking is a serious crime involving exploitation through force, fraud, or manipulation. Victims are often subjected to forced labour or sexual exploitation and deprived of their freedom and dignity.
Launched in 2020, the IJFS is funded by the Ontario government and includes municipal, provincial, and First Nations police services working together to identify offenders and protect vulnerable individuals.
Written by Jeremy Hall