HUMAN TRAFFICKING 26-36463

HUMAN TRAFFICKING INVESTIGATION
Loaded gun seized

LONDON, ON (April 20, 2026) – A Brampton man is facing multiple charges following an investigation by members of the London Police Service (LPS) Human Trafficking Unit.

On April 17, 2026, members of the LPS Human Trafficking Unit were at a hotel in the Exeter Road area conducting routine outreach and safety checks. During this process, officers identified an online advertisement with indicators of possible third‑party involvement and arranged to meet with the female advertiser. As a result of the interaction, officers identified a male believed to be facilitating the sexual services and observed him exiting the hotel a short time later.

As police approached, the male fled on foot inside the hotel. During the pursuit, officers observed the male discard an item in a hallway.

The suspect was arrested and officers located and seized a loaded Glock 22 handgun from the area where the item was discarded.

Investigators determined the accused did not possess a valid licence or registration for the firearm.

Officers were able to confirm that the male was involved in facilitating the female’s activities within the sex trade. The victim did not sustain any physical injuries.

Two cellular phones and a quantity of Canadian currency were also seized as part of the investigation.

As a result, Elijah Clarke, 24, of Brampton, has been charged with the following offences:

• Unauthorized possession of a firearm;
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon;
• Possess restricted or prohibited firearm knowingly not holding a licence;
• Possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon or prohibited device;
• Possess loaded regulated firearm;
• Three counts of handle firearm, weapon prohibited device or ammunition in a careless manner;
• Carry a concealed weapon;
• Procuring / exercising control;
• Material benefit from sexual services; and
• Advertising another person’s sexual services.

The accused remains in custody and is expected to reappear in London court today in relation to these charges.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers.  

For media inquiries, contact:

Media Relations Officer
C. 519-661-5410
Email. Media Officer

26-36463

Recognizing the signs of human trafficking

Human trafficking can take many forms and often goes unrecognized. Indicators may include individuals who appear controlled by others, lack access to identification or money, show signs of fear or intimidation, or are unable to speak freely about their situation. Victims may be forced or coerced into providing sexual services or labour and may frequently move locations or be accompanied by someone who speaks on their behalf.

More information on the signs of human trafficking and available supports can be found on the London Police Service website: https://www.londonpolice.ca/crime-prevention/human-trafficking/ 

Anyone with information related to human trafficking is urged to contact the London Police Service or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.