Two arrested in Ottawa after interprovincial human trafficking investigation

An interprovincial human trafficking investigation has resulted in two people being arrested and facing multiple charges.

The 10-month investigation, codenamed “Project Nebula,” began in September 2023 and was initiated by the Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS) led by the provincial human trafficking intelligence agency.

Project Nebula was created in response to reports of suspected human trafficking in eastern Ontario. As the investigation progressed, police discovered that the operation had expanded into southern Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia.

On July 9, 2024, two people were arrested in Ottawa: a 45-year-old from Brampton and a 33-year-old from Sydney, Nova Scotia.

Each couple faces numerous charges, including a total of 17 counts of human trafficking and 19 counts of trafficking-related misdemeanors.

Both accused appeared in court in Ottawa on August 23, 2024, and remain in custody until their next hearing scheduled for September 9, 2024.

Three female victims have also been identified, but it is believed there may be more victims.

A publication ban has been announced and no further information will be released.

Project Nebula involves 20 police agencies, including:

Anishinabek Police Services
Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service
Barrie Police
Durham Regional Police Service
Greater Sudbury Police Service
Halton Regional Police
Hamilton Police
Kingston Police
London Police
Niagara Regional Police
Ontario Provincial Police
Ottawa Police
Peel Regional Police
Peterborough Police
Six Nations Police
Thunder Bay Police
Toronto Police
Third Treaty Police Service
Windsor Police Service
York Regional Police