Human Trafficking Unit conducts a “john sting” targeting demand for underage sex work

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, June 3, 2026   9:45 a.m.

(Ottawa) – An Ottawa Police Service (OPS) undercover operation targeting individuals seeking to sexually exploit minors has led to multiple arrests as part of an ongoing effort to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable youth.

The OPS Human Trafficking Unit led the targeted initiative in collaboration with the Internet Child Exploitation Unit and the Computer Forensic Unit, with support from the Ontario Provincial Police Human Trafficking Intelligence-Led Joint Forces Strategy.

The initiative focused on identifying and apprehending individuals seeking to exploit minors, while reinforcing law enforcement’s commitment to protecting vulnerable youth and disrupting human trafficking activities.

The operation, commonly referred to as a “john sting,” targeted individuals attempting to purchase sexual services from people they believed to be under the age of 18 through online platforms and other communication methods.

During the operation, undercover officers posed as underage individuals online and engaged with suspects attempting to arrange sexual services. As a result of the proactive investigation:

• 11 individuals were arrested
• 26 charges were laid, including:
  • Obtaining sexual services for consideration from a person under 18
  • Telecommunication with a person under or believed to be under 18 years for specific criminal offences
  • Telecommunication with a person or believed to be under 16 years for specific criminal offences

“This operation sends a clear message that the sexual exploitation of children and vulnerable persons will not be tolerated in our community”, said Sergeant Amanda Larche.

“Human Trafficking is driven by demand, and enforcement efforts targeting purchasers is critical in protecting victims and preventing exploitation.”

Investigators emphasize that many victims of human trafficking are manipulated, coerced, and controlled through violence, intimidation, addiction, and psychological abuse. Youth who are vulnerable, isolated, or experiencing instability are at heightened risk of exploitation.

The Ottawa Police Service continues to work closely with community organizations and victim support agencies to identify victims, provide assistance, and hold offenders accountable.

Anyone with information regarding suspected human trafficking or child exploitation is encouraged to contact the Ottawa Police Service Human Trafficking Unit tip line at 613-236-1222 ext. 5625 or email [email protected].

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppers.ca.

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Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366

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