Winnipeg police make arrest for human trafficking

The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) has arrested a Saskatchewan man on human trafficking charges.

The investigation began on September 16, when officers went to a home in Winnipeg to check on the well-being of two women who were allegedly being held against their will.

When officers arrived at the home, they found the two women and seized a large number of illicit drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine, prescription Xanax pills, psilocybin mushrooms, fentanyl and marijuana. Police also found a loaded .22-caliber sawed-off rifle, a 9mm Glock handgun, ammunition and a can of bear repellent.

Police also noted indicators of human trafficking.

The counterexploitation unit took over the investigation and determined that the suspect met one of the victims through a dating app while living in a neighboring province.

WPS alleges the suspect manipulated the woman into believing they were involved in a romantic relationship. Police said once trust was formed, the woman, along with a second victim, were transported to Manitoba, where the suspect “hired both victims to work as escorts selling sexual services for financial gain.”

According to police, the women were forced to make and post advertisements on social media offering sexual services. Officers add that the suspect took their identities and used electronic devices to track the two victims.

On September 18, police arrested a 46-year-old Saskatchewan man. He was charged with several crimes, including two counts of human trafficking and two counts of hiring a person to provide sexual services. The suspect is in custody.

Both victims were taken to a safe location and provided with appropriate resources.