Salvation Army Centre of Hope in London Aids Victims Rescued from a Human Trafficking Ring

On June 8, a human trafficking ring in London, Ont., was dismantled as a result of an investigation conducted by the RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and local police. The operation led to the liberation of 31 people.

The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope assisted in the operation by providing showers, toiletries, clothing and food to the victims.

Executive Director of the Centre of Hope, Jon DeActis, says The Salvation Army was already preparing to assist the victims, weeks ahead of the actual police intervention.

“They needed a place to interview them, and also to provide them with meals, some clothes, and showers.”

“A little over a month ago, we received a call from the RCMP. They were looking for some assistance regarding a human trafficking takedown,” DeActis said “They needed a place to interview them, and also to provide them with meals, some clothes, and showers.”

After their rescue, the guests were welcomed at the Centre of Hope with toiletry bags and meals specifically prepared for them. They were offered showers and given a space to relax while the RCMP conducted some interviews. The RCMP had also arranged for Emergency Medical Services to be present to set up a medical room in case of any emergencies.

Although the guests didn’t speak English, they expressed gratitude towards the staff for their assistance.

“They didn’t speak English so they kind of nodded at us and smiled. There was a recognition that they felt comfortable. They didn’t look anxious at all when my staff was around or when I was around,” DeActis added.

After their stop at the Centre of Hope, the individuals rescued were provided with hotel rooms. Days after the operation, the RCMP reached back out to The Salvation Army to thank them for their assistance and participation.

“We are very grateful for the incredible job that The Salvation Army did to comfort and treat the victims. Their enthusiasm for helping out was infectious, and lifted our spirits on a day that may have otherwise been a difficult one for all the officers involved,” Cpl. Lesley Somers said on behalf of the RCMP.

“We had the opportunity to serve our community differently.”

“It feels good to be part of The Salvation Army and be able to offer services outside of what we do here. We had the opportunity to serve our community differently. My staff went beyond the call of duty and did an amazing job helping in this type of situation,” DeActis said.

During the raid, two men were taken into custody. They were both charged by the RCMP and CBSA with multiple offences.

For more information about The Salvation Army’s modern slavery and human trafficking response work and programs across Canada and Bermuda, please visit: https://salvationist.ca/modern-slavery-human-trafficking-response/fight-for-freedom/canada-and-bermuda-impact-report/2022/

By Juan Romero