November 22, 2023

OPP raises awareness of human trafficking through information session

The Grey Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) along with the South Bruce OPP, OPP West Region Provincial Liaison Team and in partnership with Saugeen First Nation hosted a human trafficking awareness session.

On November 20, 2023, an awareness session was hosted on Saugeen First Nation with a guest speaker talking about human trafficking. Over 12 community service providers had booths proving information on human trafficking and local services that they offer.

Human trafficking is NOT just a big city issue, it is here in rural Ontario. A victim of human trafficking will not see any escape from "the game." They are dependent upon us to help, here are some signs that a person is being trafficked:

• Tattoos or branding by a trafficker to show ownership.
• Substance abuse disorder as a method of control.
• Having multiple cellphones, or a cellphone with tracking or screen mirroring applications installed.
• Fearful of police.
• Someone else speaks for the trafficked person.
• No control over their money.
• Having new jewelry, clothing, or other expensive items they cannot afford to buy
• Refusing to provide any information or provides false information.
• Cannot tell you where they live, not even an address.
• Cannot identify their location or their upcoming destination.
• Travelling with limited or no baggage.
• Dressed inappropriately for the weather or situation.
• Not in possession of money or their identification.
• Presence of sex products such as toys, lubricants, condoms.
• Shows signs of abuse, malnourished, sleep deprived.
• Signs of frequent travel: motel receipts/key cards, fast food wrappers, gas receipts, rental car information.
• Factors specific to Grey-Bruce:

• Geographic isolation.
• Tourism - particularly port towns, Tobermory, Owen Sound, Port Elgin, Kincardine.
• Direct line into and out of the city. Hwy 21, Hwy 6, Hwy 10, Highway 26, County Road 86, County Road 4.

The Grey Bruce OPP and the South Bruce OPP are requesting anyone that is concerned that their loved one is involved with human trafficking to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

 

---

At South Grey News, we endeavour to bring you truthful and factual, up-to-date local community news in a quick and easy-to-digest format that’s free of political bias. We believe this service is more important today than ever before, as social media has given rise to misinformation, largely unchecked by big corporations who put profits ahead of their responsibilities.

South Grey News does not have the resources of a big corporation. We are a small, locally owned-and-operated organization. Research, analysis and physical attendance at public meetings and community events requires considerable effort. But contributions from readers and advertisers, however big or small, go a long way to helping us deliver positive, open and honest journalism for this community.

Please consider supporting South Grey News with a donation in lieu of a subscription fee and let us know that our efforts are appreciated. Thank you.