PETERBOROUGH-Three Maryhill, ON residents are facing charges after the Peterborough Police Service executed search warrants in connection with an ongoing human trafficking investigation.
In January 2021, members of the Peterborough Police Service began an investigation into human trafficking in the City of Peterborough which evolved into a Provincial organized crime investigation identifying numerous victims in cities across Ontario and into Alberta according to police.
As a result of the 6 month investigation, 3 people have been charged with human trafficking-related offences:
- 53-year-old Bounma Houmphavong of Maryhill, ON has been charged with trafficking in persons X 6 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.
- 42-year-old Yin Ping Houmphavong of Maryhill, ON has been charged with trafficking in persons X 6 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.
- 34-year-old Huan Lu of Maryhill, ON has been charged with trafficking in persons X 6 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.
Police reportedly seized a large quantity of Canadian currency, 40-50 cellphones and electronic devices, assets of the accused and numerous documents related to victims from locations in Maryhill, Oshawa, Newmarket, and Markham.
Numerous other police services were part of this complex investigation: Canada Border Services Agency, the Ontario Provincial Police Service, Waterloo Regional Police Service, Durham Regional Police Service, the York Regional Police Service, Hamilton Police Service and the Windsor Police Service.
The accused appeared in court June 10, 2021 at which time they were remanded into custody. They will appear back in court on June 17, 2021.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and further details will be released when available.
