Two men from Oakville, Ont., are facing charges related to human trafficking for allegedly taking advantage of three Mexican workers at their sushi restaurant, according to Halton police on Tuesday.
Police began an investigation in March after receiving a tip that three employees were being mistreated at August 8 – a franchise sushi restaurant – located in Oakville.
Authorities executed search warrants at the restaurant as well as at two homes in Oakville, police reported.
At these residences, “individuals were found living in cramped, overcrowded, and unsanitary conditions,” police stated in a news release.
“The victims were subjected to control that left them feeling powerless and dependent, with violations extending to their sexual integrity,” police allege.
Investigators noted that additional victims came forward after the searches took place.
A 46-year-old man from Oakville who is said to own the August 8 franchise faces multiple charges, including but not limited to: three counts of trafficking in persons, possession of property obtained through crime over $5,000, and unauthorized employment of foreign nationals.
The head chef of the restaurant, who is 27 years old, also faces human trafficking charges and has been charged with three counts of sexual assault.
Both individuals were arrested last week and are currently held in custody while awaiting a bail hearing at the Milton courthouse.
Const. Jeff Dillon, a spokesperson for Halton police, mentioned he couldn’t disclose details about the current situation of the victims but confirmed that several community organizations are assisting them.
“It can be a very traumatic circumstance,” he said while discussing those involved in labor trafficking cases where workers may have their pay or passports withheld, creating difficult situations for them.
Dillon indicated he couldn’t share more specific information regarding this case as it will soon go before the courts.
Dillon added that the human trafficking unit continues its investigation and urged anyone with further information to reach out to them.
The service noted in a news release that there may be more victims out there.
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