In a significant step toward addressing human trafficking, a joint undercover operation between Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service and Calgary Police Service has led to multiple charges against individuals involved in targeting underage Indigenous girls. This initiative, part of Project Buffalo, is dedicated to combating the exploitation of minors through the purchase of sexual services.
During the investigation, which began in May, multiple instances were uncovered where individuals had arranged meetings to obtain sexual services from minors. It is important to note that none of the individuals charged are members of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Operations like Project Buffalo are essential in tackling the overrepresentation of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals as victims of sex trafficking. This work supports the accountability framework outlined by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls (MMIWG) inquiry, which calls for urgent action to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
The following individuals have been charged with the offences listed below and are currently before the courts:
Charges include:
- Section 72.1(1)(A) CC: Luring a child for the purpose of obtaining sexual services from a person under 18
- Section 286.1(2) CC: Obtaining sexual services for consideration from a person under 18
- Section 152 CC: Invitation to sexual touching of a person under 16 years of age
Individuals Charged:
- Samerab Gebresele – 38-year-old male.
- Robin Spiers – 57-year-old male.
- Anas Al-Dabbous – 53-year-old male.
- Davis Mapande – 29-year-old male.
- Aviman Kakkar – 21-year-old male.
- Babalbir Randhawa – 38-year-old male.
- Mandeep Singh – 40-year-old male.
- Francis Zarate – 31-year-old male.
Gary Dellow – 38-year-old male.
We acknowledge that the original release mentioned a 10th individual. However, we will not be releasing their name, as their charges are not proceeding through the courts.
We recognize that media releases like this one can evoke strong emotions or trigger victims of human trafficking or those impacted by similar crimes. If you or someone you know has been affected, please reach out for support.
• The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-833-900-1010 (24/7 confidential support)
• Hope for Wellness Help Line (Indigenous Support): 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at
hopeforwellness.ca
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868The Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service stands committed to supporting victims and working with our partners to end the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.