Human trafficking investigation in Ontario region leads to six arrests, multiple charges

Six men are facing a total of 19 charges after the completion of a human trafficking investigation into the purchase of sexual services from children in Durham Region.

Two of the men are from Oshawa, with others from Ajax, Pickering, Brampton and Markham.

Durham Regional Police’s Human Trafficking Unit launched an ongoing initiative, dubbed Project Firebird, to combat the purchase of sexual services from minors in Durham, with the project focusing on those who were “interested and willing” to buy sexual services from minors.

Last month Project Firebird investigators saw multiple individuals arrange meetings for sexual services, despite the suspects being “fully aware” they were communicating with minors.

Six suspects were taken into custody.

Christopher Smith, 39, and Leodee Ayoyo, 27 – both from Oshawa – Bruce Herrington, 50, from Ajax, Sarang Kapdi, 33, from Pickering, Manish Singh, 22, from Brampton and Nickolas Chen, 24, from Markham, were all charged  with luring for the purpose of obtaining sexual services under 18, obtaining sexual services under 18, and invitation to sexual touching under 16.

Chen was also charged with obstruction.

All were released on promises to appear in court.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Winsor of the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600. Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

Police are asking if you or someone you know has been affected by human trafficking to come forward to the DRPS Children at Risk of Exploitation Unit for support. The unit combines the expertise of police officers and child protection workers to identify, investigate, locate and engage with children and youth at high risk of child sex trafficking.

The Region of Durham has also established a support network for survivors, accessible through www.stopht.com. Parents and caregivers can also use this resource to educate children about recognizing the signs of human trafficking.

Victim Services of Durham Region offers confidential support without judgement, available at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.

“Together, we can make a difference in combating human trafficking. If you have any information or concerns, please reach out to the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit.”