Human Trafficking Charges Laid

On Friday, February 1, 2013, police arrested two individuals who have subsequently been charged with several criminal charges in relation to prostitution and human trafficking.

In late 2012, two females under the age of eighteen met two males who attempted to procure them into prostitution. Over a period of several days, one of the victims was duressed into providing sexual services to sex trade customers before being able to flee to safety.

In December, 2012, one of the victims came forward to the police and as a result of an extensive investigation into these allegations, the following charges have been laid against Arjanit Nick (Sammy) SIMNICA, 29, and Avni (Antonio) GASHI, 22, both of Calgary:

2 counts of procure a person to become a prostitute
Live on the avails of a prostitute under the age of 18
Trafficking in persons
Receive material benefit from trafficking in persons
2 counts of forcible confinement
Assault/common assault
Possession of locally stolen property over $5,000

Both accused are in custody and will make their next court appearance on Friday, February 8, 2013.