Peel Police Highlights Ongoing Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking and Support Survivors

Thursday, July 30, 2026

Region of Peel – As World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed on July 30, Peel Regional Police is raising awareness of human trafficking and the importance of protecting victims and preventing exploitation in our communities.

During June and July, Peel Regional Police led a province-wide human trafficking initiative in partnership with 17 other police services and four victim services organizations. Peel Police and participating police agencies identified 98 individuals involved in the sex trade and offered them access to critical social services and resources. The initiative also resulted in multiple ongoing human trafficking investigations.

Between 2021 and 2025, the Human Trafficking Unit has conducted 929 investigations, resulting in 201 accused persons, 767 human trafficking-related charges, and the identification of 178 victims. More recently, Project Mermaid resulted in the arrest and charging of two individuals following a lengthy human trafficking investigation involving the alleged trafficking and sexual exploitation of a victim in the Greater Toronto Area.

While there’s been a steady increase of charges being laid year-over-year, human trafficking remains an underreported crime that disproportionately affects some of the community's most vulnerable communities.

Peel Regional Police, alongside community partners like the Safe Centre of Peel, is working to further build trust, encourage victims and survivors to come forward, and connect them with the supports and resources needed to safely leave situations of exploitation.

Anyone who may be experiencing exploitation is encouraged to seek help. If you or someone you know is being trafficked or forced to do something against their will, please contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 905-453-2121 ext. 3555 or the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.

QUICK FACTS

· During June and July, Peel Regional Police led a province-wide human trafficking initiative with 17 police services and four victim services organizations. Peel Police identified 98 individuals involved in the sex trade and offered them access to critical social services and resources.

· Participating police services: Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Anishinabek Police Service, Barrie Police Service, Belleville Police Service, Brantford Police Service, Cornwall Police Service, Durham Regional Police Service, Guelph Police Service, Halton Regional Police Service, Hamilton Police Service, Kingston Police, London Police Service, North Bay Police Service, Peel Regional Police, Greater Sudbury Police Service, South Simcoe Police Service, Waterloo Regional Police Service, Woodstock Police Service, and York Regional Police.

· Between 2021 and 2025, the Human Trafficking Unit has conducted 929 investigations, resulting in 201 accused persons, 767 human trafficking-related charges, and the identification of 178 victims.

QUOTE

“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.”

— Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich, Peel Regional Police