Male Facing Human Trafficking and Firearm Charges

A 34-year-old male is facing numerous human trafficking, sex trade and firearm charges after an investigation.

On Thursday, November 2, 2023, members of the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit took a male into custody in the City of Oshawa.  A victim of human trafficking had previously provided police with information about a male suspect involved in numerous offences.  The victim told police that she had been trafficked and exploited in the sex trade by the suspect.

Matthew CHAN, age 34 from Whitby is charged with numerous offences including: Point Firearm, Assault, Forcible Confinement, Traffick in Persons, Material Benefit from Person Under 18, and Material Benefit from Sexual Services.

He was held for a bail hearing.

If there are any other victims or if anyone has new information about this investigation please contact D/Cst. Heron of the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5697.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

Investigators are appealing to any person who may be involved in a similar situation or may know someone involved to come forward.  DRPS takes these cases seriously and will conduct a thorough investigation, as well as protect the victims of these crimes.

A support network for survivors of human trafficking has been established in the Region of Durham.  These services can be accessed via www.stopHT.com.  Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to use the resources found in the website to have open discussions with the minors in their lives about recognizing the signs of human trafficking.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court.

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