Toronto man charged in human trafficking investigation involving underage victim

24-year-old Ebenezer Kodua of Toronto man charged following a human trafficking investigation (TPS photo).

A 24-year-old Toronto man has been charged following a human trafficking investigation targeting the “purchase and sale” of sexual services from minors, police say.

In a news release, Toronto Police said their Human Trafficking Enforcement Team launched “Project Reproach” earlier this month, an initiative aimed at combating the exploitation of underage victims.

Officials allege that through a combination of “deception, coercion and control,” the accused procured and attempted to traffic an underage female victim.

Police did not provide the age of the victim, but further allege the accused communicated with and “attempted to receive” sexual services from her.

Last weekend, on Saturday, Feb. 21, investigators located and arrested 24-year-old Ebenezer Kodua, of Toronto.

He has been charged with:

• Procuring a person under the age of 18
• Trafficking persons under 18 by recruiting
• Obtaining sexual services for consideration from a person under 18

Police say he was scheduled to appear in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, at 10 a.m. that same day.

In addition, officials say Project Reproach resulted in four additional adult males being arrested and charged with “obtaining sexual services” for consideration from a person under the age of 18.

None of their names have been released.

Investigators say they are concerned there could be other victims and are asking anyone with information to contact police.