Markham Man Arrested for Using Social Media to Sexually Lure and Extort Youth
Region of Peel - Investigators from the Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit have arrested and charged a 24-year-old man from Markham in connection with an online child luring investigation.
In December 2025, investigators launched an investigation into an individual who allegedly used multiple social media platforms to lure youth under the age of 16. The accused is alleged to have posed as an underage male to obtain explicit images, which were then used to extort the youth for sexual purposes.
Investigators identified the user as Sugin Mohanathas, who was found to be operating multiple social media accounts under the following handles:
- Snapchat: nicovalentino23
- Instagram: Forgiveme1236
The accused used the alias Keshawn during his online chats with the victims.
On March 26, 2026, Mohanathas was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Luring a Child Under 18
- Luring a Child Under 16
- Making Sexually Explicit Material Available to Person Under 16
- Extortion
- Possession of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material
Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone who believes they may be a victim to come forward as the investigation is on-going.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the ICE Unit at 905-453-2121, ext. 3490. Anonymous tips may also be provided through Peel Crime Stoppers by calling 1‑800‑222‑TIPS (8477) or by visiting PeelCrimeStoppers.ca.
SOCIAL MEDIA
MEDIA CONTACT
Email: media.relations@peelpolice.ca
Phone: 905-453-2121, ext. 4027
N/R: 26-106
Occ#: PR250397026
Peel Regional Police – A Safer Community Together
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