Police Arrest Human Traffickers Laundering Money Through Canadian Casinos
Human Trafficking Ring Targeted by Canadian Police
Canadian officials have apprehended two individuals connected to a human trafficking scheme that used casinos for money laundering activities across multiple provinces. Both suspects face several charges, with one currently held in custody.
Investigation Aided by Victims
On April 17, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) revealed that its Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) in Nova Scotia charged two individuals with 19 offenses tied to human trafficking and financial crimes. The case involves multiple victims within Nova Scotia, and the illicit earnings were laundered through casinos in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario.
The probe began in 2023 after HTU learned of a sex trafficking operation in Nova Scotia. The Forensic Accounting Management Group (FAMG) played a role in uncovering that the illegal profits were being cycled through regional casinos.
Sergeant Jeff MacFarlane from the HTU highlighted that protecting victims is paramount, along with ensuring they receive proper support as the inquiry progresses. Notably, the cooperation of the victims was crucial in building the case against the traffickers.
“Tackling this problem demands a collaborative approach. We commend the bravery and strength of the victims who contributed to this investigation. Their involvement led to dismantling a trafficking network and safeguarding others from harm.”
Sgt. Jeff MacFarlane
Details About the Arrests
The RCMP reported that a 49-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman were detained on April 10 during a traffic stop on Highway 102 near Milford, supported by Halifax Regional Police.
The man, from Porters Lake, faces 13 charges, including trafficking in persons, benefiting from sexual services, destroying or withholding documents, and laundering criminal proceeds. He appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court on April 13 and remains in custody.
The woman, residing in Chester Basin, faces similar charges but was released on the condition that she attends future court hearings.
The RCMP noted that their investigation into the wider trafficking network is still ongoing.
