Peel police charge two alleged MS-13 members in human trafficking case
Peel Regional Police human trafficking probe charges two men tied to MS-13 Project Mermaid exposed alleged exploitation in the GTA; see how police say it unfolded
Peel Regional Police have charged two men they say are linked to MS13 after a monthslong human trafficking investigation in the Greater Toronto Area.
The probe, known as Project Mermaid, began in November 2025 after police received allegations that a woman was being trafficked and sexually exploited across the region. Investigators say one suspect directed the operation while serving a prison sentence, using an unauthorized cellphone to stay in contact with the victim and another accused.
Police allege the men used threats, intimidation and manipulation to control the victim and profit from her exploitation. Search warrants were carried out in Mississauga and Collingwood, and both suspects are now in custody. Police say there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to come forward.