(Toronto) A 40-year-old woman has been charged in Ontario in connection with an ongoing investigation into human trafficking — Mexican workers.
Posted at 5:54 p.m.
Toronto police say the investigation began in April following reports that a woman recruited Mexican nationals with the promise of work and accommodation in Canada.
Upon their arrival in the country, the woman allegedly stole their travel documents, exploited their immigration status in Canada, facilitated their employment and “seized a considerable part” of their wages, according to the police. She even attacked and threatened one of the victims.
Police say officers executed two search warrants in Toronto on July 6 and arrested a 40-year-old woman. She faces multiple counts, including three of human trafficking and one count of assault.
Police have interviewed more than 40 witnesses and potential victims, but investigators believe there may be more victims. Police are asking anyone with information about the case to come forward.
This dispatch was produced with the financial assistance of the Meta Exchanges and The Canadian Press for the news.