Calgary woman freed from sex trafficking, man charged by ALERT

On June 25, 2024, ALERT arrested Reginald Kwame Boakye with the help of Airdrie RCMP and Calgary police. (ALERT handouts)

Police say one man is facing charges and a Calgary woman has been rescued from sex trafficking following an almost two-month-long investigation.

Members of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams' (ALERT) human trafficking unit launched their investigation in May.

On June 25, officers arrested Reginald Kwame Boakye with the help of Airdrie RCMP and Calgary police.

ALERT alleges the Boakye targeted newcomers to Canada, luring them into the sex trade.

At time of his arrest,  ALERT says Boakye was carrying a loaded handgun and ammunition, despite having a lifetime firearms ban from previous convictions.

"Boakye allegedly targeted young women and vulnerable new comers to Canada, and lured them into the sex trade through manipulation, grooming and coercion," said a Thursday news release.

Boakye, 31, is facing several offences related to trafficking and firearms.

Officials believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging them, or anyone with information about the incident, to connect their local police service or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Boakye remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on July 4.

ALERT says an "associate" of Boakye was also arrested.

Deng Majak Achuil, 28, was wanted on 35 outstanding warrants and charged with obstruction.