Joint Law Enforcement Operation Leads to Human Trafficking Arrest
In a significant development in the fight against human trafficking, Alberta's law enforcement response team, known as ALERT, has successfully charged a suspect from Montreal with multiple human trafficking offenses. This operation was conducted with crucial assistance from the Calgary Police Service, highlighting the collaborative efforts required to combat such crimes.
Investigation Triggered by Crime Stoppers Tip
The investigation began in early March after ALERT received a tip through the Crime Stoppers program. According to authorities, the suspect was allegedly traveling across Canada, exploiting girls and women for sexual services. Staff Sergeant Matt Pumphrey of ALERT emphasized the challenges investigators face in such cases, particularly in reaching victims who may have moved from the area.
"For investigators, it becomes a challenge of reaching victims who may have left the area, but their information is valuable and we want to hear from them," Pumphrey stated in a news release issued on Friday.
Charges Filed Against Montreal Suspect
The accused, identified as Neylson Benoit-Ancion, a 33-year-old from Montreal, faces serious charges including:
- Trafficking a person
- Obtaining material benefit from sexual services
- Procuring a person for sexual services
- Advertising a person for sexual services
Benoit-Ancion was formally charged on Thursday, March 12, 2026, and has since been released from custody. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 10, 2026, to answer to these allegations.
Victim Support and Public Appeal
To date, investigators have identified two victims during their probe and have provided them with support resources through ALERT's safety network coordinators. Authorities have also identified additional potential victims and are actively encouraging them to come forward and contact police.
Survivors of human trafficking are reminded that they can call 211 for immediate assistance and support. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about this case to contact their local police department or reach out to Crime Stoppers through multiple channels:
- Online reporting
- By phone at 1-800-222-8477
- Using the P3 Tips mobile application
This case underscores the ongoing efforts by Canadian law enforcement agencies to address human trafficking, a crime that often operates across provincial boundaries and requires coordinated responses from multiple jurisdictions.
