by Special Correspondent, Hello Asia News
In a significant crackdown on illegal human smuggling, four individuals have been arrested and arrest warrants have been issued for four more suspects involved in a large-scale operation that funneled illegal migrants into the United States through Cornwall, Ontario.
Background: In July 2022, investigators from the Cornwall Regional Task Force (CRTF) identified a human smuggling ring profiting from the illegal movement of migrants from Canada into the United States. Over the course of the investigation, which spanned from July 2022 to June 2023, the group allegedly smuggled hundreds of migrants through communities along the St. Lawrence River, often charging exorbitant fees for their services. The perilous night-time crossings tragically resulted in the loss of several lives.
Suspects Identified and Charged:
- Thesingarasan Rasiah, 51, Montreal, QC
- Joel Portillo, 38, Montreal, QC
- Justin Rourke, 43, Saint Regis, QC
- Shawna Etienne, 47, Kanesatake, QC
- Mary June Benedict, 48, Akwesasne, ON
- Cheyenne Lewis, 51, Akwesasne, QC
- Tionna David, 21, Saint Regis, QC
- Michael McCormick, 47, Cornwall, ON
The RCMP expressed gratitude to various agencies for their crucial assistance throughout the investigation, including the OPP, CBSA, Ministry of Finance, AMPS, RCMP Eastern Region, HSI, USBP, FAMG, and FINTRAC. Their collective efforts were instrumental in the success of this operation.
Agencies Involved:
- Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- Ministry of Finance (MOF)
- Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USBP)
- Forensic Accounting Management Group (FAMG)
- Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC)
Official Statement: “Many people from all over the world come to North America desperately seeking a better life. Transnational criminal networks are exploiting that desperation to profit from these men, women, and families, with no concern for their welfare. While collaboration with our partners was key in bringing this group to justice, I would also like to remind the public to remain vigilant and inform us immediately if they see suspicious activity on our borders to help authorities put an end to this type of dangerous exploitation,” stated Insp. Etienne Thauvette, Officer in charge of the Cornwall Detachment, Central Region Federal Policing, Border Integrity Section.
Fast Facts: The CRTF is a joint task force comprising the RCMP, OPP, CBSA, and the Ontario Ministry of Finance, working closely with trusted US partners to combat cross-border crime. The RCMP’s commitment to excellence and collaboration with communities and partners ensures the integrity of Canada’s borders and the safety and security of Canadians.
For more updates, stay tuned to Hello Asia News.
This news is brought to you by:
