Winnipeg Police Service successfully rescued two adult females from a residence in the western area of Winnipeg, where they were reportedly being held against their will. The rescue operation, which took place on September 16, 2024, led to the discovery of a large cache of illicit drugs and firearms.

Upon arrival, officers from the West and North Districts verified the safety of the two victims and seized a substantial quantity of drugs, including Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Xanax prescription pills, Psilocybin mushrooms, Fentanyl, and Marijuana, with an estimated street value of $86,000. Additionally, a loaded sawed-off .22 calibre rifle, a 9mm Glock handgun, various ammunition, and a canister of bear spray repellant were confiscated. Indicators of human trafficking were also observed at the scene.

The Counter Exploitation Unit took over the investigation and uncovered that the suspect, Randy Norman Hamilton, 46, of Saskatchewan, had met one of the victims through a dating app. He manipulated her into believing they were in a romantic relationship, eventually transporting her and a second victim to Manitoba. The suspect forced the victims to work as escorts, selling sexual services for his financial gain. The victims were coerced into creating and posting social media advertisements offering sexual services, had their identification taken away, and were tracked using electronic devices.

On September 18, 2024, Hamilton was arrested and charged with multiple offences, including:

• Trafficking in Persons (2 counts)
• Procuring a Person to Provide Sexual Services (2 counts)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (5 counts)
• Possession of a Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm
• Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized (2 counts)
• Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession of Firearm, Restricted/Prohibited Weapon or Ammunition contrary to Prohibition Order (2 counts)
• Sexual Assault

Hamilton remains in custody. Both victims have been transported to safety and provided with appropriate resources to assist in their recovery.

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