February 9,2026
RED FM News Desk
Six men have been charged following a human trafficking investigation in Durham Region aimed at combating the purchase of sexual services from minors.
Durham Regional Police Service’s Human Trafficking Unit launched the investigation under an ongoing initiative known as ‘Project Firebird’, which focuses on identifying individuals willing to purchase sexual services from persons under the age of 18.
The project also works to educate and support victims and potential victims, while addressing concerns raised by the community.
Police say that in January 2026, investigators identified multiple suspects who allegedly arranged meetings for sexual services with minors, despite being fully aware they were communicating with underage individuals.
As a result of the investigation, six males were taken into custody without incident and a total of 19 charges were laid.
Manish Singh, 22, of Brampton; Bruce Herrington, 50, of Ajax; Sarang Kapdi, 33, of Pickering; Leodee Ayoyao, 27, of Oshawa; and Christopher Smith, 39, of Oshawa are each charged with luring a person for the purpose of obtaining sexual services under 18, obtaining sexual services under 18, and invitation to sexual touching under 16.
Nickolas Chen, 24, of Markham faces the same charges, along with an additional charge of obstructing police.
All six accused were released on undertakings.
Police note that these allegations have not yet been proven in court
Durham police are asking anyone with information related to these incidents to contact Detective Constable Winsor of the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5600.
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