A human trafficking investigation between Tsuut’ina Nation Police Services and Calgary Police Services has resulted in the arrests of multiple individuals targeting underage Indigenous girls.
The initiative, Project Buffalo, was aimed at combating the exploitation of minors.
During the investigation, which began in May, there were multiple times where individuals arranged meetings with minors.
“Operations like Project Buffalo are essential in tackling the overrepresentation of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals as victims of sex trafficking,” a Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service news release said.
Adding the initiative supports the framework outlined by Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls (MMIWG), calling for urgent action to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
The charges include luring a child for the purpose of obtaining sexual services from a person under 18, obtaining sexual services for consideration from a person under 18, and invitation to sexual touching of a person under 16 years of age.
The following individuals have been charged:
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Samerab Gebresele – a 38-year-old male.
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Robin Spiers – a 57-year-old male.
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Anas Al-Dabbous – a 53-year-old male.
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Davis Mapande – a 29-year-old male.
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Aviman Kakkar – a 21-year-old male.
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Babalbir Randhawa – 38-year-old male.
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Mandeep Singh – 40-year-old male.
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Francis Zarate – a 31-year-old male.
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Gary Dellow – a 38-year-old male.
None of the individuals charged are members of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Anyone who has been affected is encouraged to reach out for support from available resources, including:
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The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-833-900-1010.
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Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 or chat online.
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Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868.
The Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service is working to support victims and working with partners to end the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
“Together, we can create safer communities and protect those most at risk,” the release said.