Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) announces the results of “Project Troubadour,” a 10-month, multi-jurisdictional investigation into alleged human trafficking. Police say the case is the largest human trafficking matter in the force’s history and involves nine suspects facing a total of 85 criminal charges. According to police, the investigation begins in September 2025 after a woman comes forward reporting exploitation, prompting a probe into alleged incidents across the Greater Toronto Area.

Sources report that the operation targets a coordinated network allegedly responsible for exploiting victims in the commercial sex trade in Ontario and elsewhere in Canada. HRPS Deputy Police Chief Jeff Hill says investigators dismantle the network and disrupt alleged control by those accused. Police also report that 12 women, aged 18 to 34, are rescued during the investigation.

Police describe the support of multiple agencies, including Peel Regional Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Criminal Intelligence Service. They also announce seizures tied to the investigation, including luxury vehicles, illegal drugs, cash and high-end jewelry, with police estimating the total value of seized items to be under $1 million.