Two Toronto men face charges after allegedly sexually exploiting a woman in Peel

Two Toronto men are each facing multiple charges after allegedly sexually exploiting a woman in Peel Region.

Last month, Peel Regional Police (PRP) launched a human trafficking investigation after learning that a man was “exercising control over aspects of (her) life and profiting financially from it.”

On June 7, investigators from the PRP’s Specialized Enforcement Bureau arrested and charged Joshua Maranhao, 32, of Toronto, saying they found him in possession of a quantity of controlled substances and a loaded firearm.

Maranhao faces numerous charges, including exercising control, direction or influence, obtaining material advantages, soliciting sexual services, criminal harassment, uttering threats, possession of a loaded prohibited firearm, concealed carrying of a weapon and possession for the purpose of trafficking.

A man arrested on June 7 in connection with a human trafficking investigation in Peel Region was allegedly found in possession of a loaded gun. (PRP photo)

Nigel Opoku, 29, of Toronto, who police said was with Maranhao, was also arrested.

He faces a number of charges, including illegal possession of a firearm, concealed carrying of a weapon and possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Both men were held in Brampton for a bail hearing.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims, particularly in the greater GTA area, and ask anyone with information to contact PRP anonymously at 905-453-2121, extension 3555, or Crime Stoppers.