A photo of Felicien Mufuta (Image provided by ALERT)

By Justin Goulet

Edmonton human trafficking suspect arrested

Mar 10, 2021 | 9:02 AM

EDMONTON, AB – UPDATE: An Edmonton man wanted in connection with a human trafficking investigation has been arrested.

ALERT Human Trafficking and Exploitation unit, along with the Edmonton Police Service, arrested the 37-year-old returning to his south Edmonton residence in the Empire Park neighbourhood.

Previous story:

An Alberta-wide arrest warrant has been issued for an Edmonton man in connection with a human trafficking investigation.

Felicien Mufuta is wanted by the ALERT Human Trafficking and Exploitation unit.

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The 37-year-old is facing charges of:

• Trafficking in persons;
• Sexual assault;
• Procuring;
• Advertising sexual services;
• Material benefit – trafficking;
• Breach of release conditions.

“ALERT believes this suspect preyed on some of our society’s most vulnerable people; allegedly controlling them through violence and withholding their identity documents,” said Staff Sergeant Lance Parker, ALERT Human Trafficking, in a release.

On March 4, a south Edmonton home was searched, and ALERT attempted to arrest Mufuta, but he was not located at the time.

ALERT believes he is in the Edmonton area. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to notify police.

The investigation started after a survivor contacted the Edmonton Police Service in February. The woman reported that she was being forced to work in the sex trade and had been sexually assaulted by the accused.

ALERT noted that the survivor is receiving support and specialized care resources.

Survivors of sex trafficking can call 211 for assistance. ALERT believes there may be additional victims. Officials are encouraging others to come forward and contact police.