BRAMPTON, ONTARIO: Marking World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, Peel Regional Police reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, raising public awareness, protecting victims, and bringing offenders to justice across the region and beyond.
Peel Regional Police announced that during June and July it led a province-wide human trafficking enforcement initiative in partnership with 17 police services and four victim services organizations. As part of the coordinated operation, investigators identified 98 individuals involved in the sex trade and offered them access to critical social services, victim support, and community resources aimed at helping them safely leave situations of exploitation. The initiative also led to several ongoing human trafficking investigations.
Police highlighted the significant work carried out by its Human Trafficking Unit over the past several years. Between 2021 and 2025, the specialized unit conducted 929 investigations, resulting in 201 accused persons, 767 human trafficking-related charges, and the identification of 178 victims. Investigators say these figures reflect both the scale of the crime and the importance of sustained enforcement efforts.
Officials also pointed to the recent success of Project Mermaid, a lengthy investigation that resulted in the arrest and charging of two individuals accused of trafficking and sexually exploiting a victim in the Greater Toronto Area. Police say the investigation demonstrates their continued focus on dismantling human trafficking networks while ensuring victims receive the support they need.
Despite an increase in charges laid each year, Peel Regional Police emphasized that human trafficking remains a significantly underreported crime that disproportionately impacts some of the most vulnerable members of society. Many victims experience fear, coercion, and isolation, making it difficult for them to seek help or report their exploitation.
Working closely with community organizations, including the Safe Centre of Peel, police continue to strengthen partnerships that encourage victims and survivors to come forward. These collaborations focus on building trust, providing trauma-informed support, and connecting individuals with housing, counselling, legal assistance, and other essential services needed to rebuild their lives.
Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich said human trafficking often flourishes in secrecy and fear, making community awareness and survivor support essential. “Human trafficking thrives in isolation and fear. Every survivor who is identified and connected to support represents an opportunity for hope. We know many people experiencing exploitation never come forward, which is why building trust and working alongside community partners remains at the centre of our approach. No one should face exploitation alone and we want victims and survivors to know that help is available,” he said.
Peel Regional Police is encouraging anyone who believes they or someone they know may be a victim of human trafficking or exploitation to seek assistance immediately. Members of the public can contact the Peel Regional Police Human Trafficking Unit or the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline for confidential support and assistance.
Police said the fight against human trafficking requires continued collaboration among law enforcement agencies, community organizations, governments, and the public to identify victims, hold traffickers accountable, and ensure survivors receive the protection and resources they deserve