Longueuil authorities are increasingly concerned about the rising presence of Asian women in massage parlors, suspecting potential human trafficking. As part of Project Sharing, police conduct welfare checks to ensure the safety of these workers, facing challenges like language barriers. Officers aim to build trust and empower women by educating them about their rights and encouraging them to report abuse. The initiative marks a shift from strict enforcement to a more supportive approach in addressing sexual exploitation.
Longueuil Police Address Concerns Over Increasing Asian Women in Massage Parlors
Authorities in Longueuil are expressing alarm over the rising number of Asian women engaged in providing sexual services at erotic massage establishments, raising suspicions of potential human trafficking operations.
On a typical Monday morning, a man steps into a bustling storefront on a popular boulevard in Longueuil. An employee, clad in an alluring silk dress, welcomes him, thinking he is a client who has scheduled an hour of pleasure for $150.
However, the man reveals his true identity as a police officer, here to conduct a welfare check.
“Our goal is to ensure your safety,” states Sergeant Detective Mario Lavoie.
This visit is part of a broader initiative known as Project Sharing, where police conduct outreach at various venues known for offering sexual services.
A recent day spent with the dedicated team from the Longueuil Agglomeration Police Service focused on tackling sexual exploitation showcased their efforts in this regard.
Language Challenges in Outreach
During this initial visit, the woman conversing with Officer Lavoie is originally from China. Language barriers often complicate the police’s outreach efforts.
To address this, Officer Célia Qhang, fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, has recently joined these operations.
“I assured her that we are not here to judge, but rather to make sure she is safe and aware that she can call the police if she faces any threats,” Officer Qhang explained after the visit.
Many women deny engaging in sexual services despite the explicit advertisements on various platforms that the police monitor.
Faced with four officers, the woman expressed concern about the legality of her actions.
Unbeknownst to her, the law is designed to protect her, criminalizing only the clients seeking sexual services and the individuals profiting from it.
She claimed to be uncoerced, stating she had recently arrived in the area and would be returning to her home in Toronto after a month.
Patterns of Movement
This response, while seemingly ordinary, mirrored those of three other sex workers encountered during the operation, who recounted almost identical stories.
“It appears to be a cycle. They come and go, with new girls taking their place,” noted Officer Qhang.
“The consistency in their narratives raises red flags, leading us to suspect potential human trafficking,” added Sergeant Detective Sophie Martel.
In earlier operations, some women lacked identification, further heightening the police’s concerns.
In response to these developments, law enforcement is committed to monitoring the situation closely.
Establishing Trust with Vulnerable Workers
“We find these operations beneficial; some women have reached out to us afterward. A relationship of trust is being cultivated,” stated Lieutenant Detective Marc Desrosiers of the Longueuil police.
He acknowledged a significant shift in policing strategies, moving from strict enforcement to a more preventive approach.
This effort involves engaging with sex workers to better understand their circumstances and assess their needs for assistance.
Part of Project Sharing includes responding to advertisements that offer services often deemed illegal. The explicit nature of these ads leaves little doubt about the services being provided.
Officers then meet with individuals in massage parlors, which typically feature discreet rooms with a massage table or bed, and sometimes even showers.
Some workers even provide services from their homes or rented apartments.
In one surprising visit, police checked on an influencer with a substantial online following, ensuring she was not in a vulnerable situation.
Previously, such operations were conducted more aggressively, but officers recognized this approach could frighten workers.
“We unintentionally created fear,” remarked Officer Fannie Perras, a member of the Integrated Team for Intervention and Support for Victims of Sexual Exploitation.
Empowering Workers Through Awareness
Recognizing the importance of prevention and education, officers strive to reassure workers, encouraging them to report any instances of abuse while informing them of their rights.
During a recent operation, one woman inquired about her options if a client refused payment.
“By fostering these connections, we hope that when they face a problem, they will feel comfortable reaching out to us,” Officer Perras explained.
She has already received messages from some women expressing gratitude for the support, with one stating she felt safe.
Project Sharing aligns with the city’s commitment to combat sexual exploitation and protect the vulnerable members of the community.