Man arrested, spa shut down in human trafficking investigation

Police have arrested a 41-year-old Ottawa man after a nearly year-long human trafficking investigation.

The man was arrested Thursday and the Touch Therapy Spa on Somerset St. W.near Booth Street was shut down in a joint operation between the Ottawa Police Service, the CanadaBorder Services Agency (CBSA) and the City of Ottawa's bylaw department.

The spa was operating in an unlicensed commercial establishment, according to a Friday police release.

The man faces 18 charges including assault, sexual assault, and trafficking in persons. Hehas been remanded into the custody of the CBSA following a hearing, police said.

Ottawa police said they believe there are several more victims.

Anyone with information is asked to call the human trafficking unit t at 613-236-1222, ext. 5005 or 1-800-292-1168.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by downloading the Ottawa Police Service app.