Tsuut’ina Nation, AB — An undercover operation into human trafficking on Tsuut’ina Nation has led to charges against 10 individuals involved in a trafficking operation targeting underage Indigenous girls. The investigation, conducted in partnership with the Calgary Police Service, forms part of Project Buffalo, a dedicated initiative to combat the exploitation of minors through the purchase of sexual services.
In May, investigators uncovered multiple cases where individuals had arranged meetings to obtain sexual services from minors. The operation resulted in 10 arrests and 31 charges being laid.
Charges Filed Include:
• Section 172.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code: Luring a child to obtain sexual services from a person under 18 years of age.
• Section 286.1(2) of the Criminal Code: Obtaining sexual services for consideration from a person under 18 years of age.
• Section 152 of the Criminal Code: Invitation to sexual touching involving a person under 16 years of age.
It is essential to note that none of the individuals charged are members of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Efforts like Project Buffalo are critical in addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous people as victims of human trafficking. This aligns with the accountability framework outlined by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) inquiry, which stressed the urgent need to protect Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.
“This investigation highlights the importance of proactive policing initiatives and collaboration with survivor-informed organizations to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable members of our community,” said Chief of Police Keith Blake. “We remain committed to disrupting the demand for sexual services and safeguarding our Nation.”
This operation was conducted with guidance from partner agencies and input from survivors of human trafficking. The Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service and Calgary Police Service are actively working to implement effective protocols for addressing sex industry issues and to promote safety and harm reduction for Indigenous women and girls.
If you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please contact one of the following organizations for support:
• Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service: 403-271-3777
• Calgary Police Service: 403-268-2489
• Alberta RCMP (non-emergency): 310-RCMP (7267)
• RESET Society of Calgary: 403-918-7311
• Stoney Corrections Victim Services: 403-669-0142
• Calgary Victim Services: 1-888-327-7828
• Not In My City: https://notinmycity.ca/
Let us unite as a community to protect vulnerable individuals and work towards ending human trafficking.