TORONTO — Police say a major investigation into human trafficking has led to the rescue earlier this month of 20 people suspected of working in the sex trade as a minor or against their will.
The investigation — called Operation Northern Spotlight — led to the arrest of 47 people who are now facing 135 charges, including trafficking in persons, forcible confinement, child pornography, and sexual assault with a weapon.
Police say most of those who were rescued were under the age of 19, with some as young as 14.
The latest phase of Operation Northern Spotlight Police, which involved officers from 40 police agencies across Canada, was led by the Ontario Provincial Police.
OPP Deputy Commissioner Scott Tod says that during the operation officers met with people suspected of taking part in the sex trade, potentially against their will, at locations across the country.
South of the border, U.S. law enforcement agencies conducted a similar operation — called Cross Country — which resulted in the rescue of numerous children and the arrest of several suspects.
