Oakville Human Trafficking Investigation Leads to Two Arrests at Local Sushi Restaurant
Halton police have arrested two men from Oakville in connection with a human trafficking investigation at August 8 Sushi Restaurant. The investigation revealed that someone coerced three Mexican nationals into working under abusive and exploitative conditions at the restaurant located at 280 North Service Rd. West, Oakville.
A Disturbing Discovery
Halton police received a tip in March about the exploitation of three men brought to Canada under false pretenses. Investigators uncovered that the victims endured coercion, control, and abusive conditions, which robbed them of their autonomy. Police reported that the men lived in cramped, overcrowded, and unsanitary conditions. Some of the victims also reported sexual assault.
The investigation led to the execution of search warrants at the restaurant and two residences in Oakville, where police seized multiple items related to the case. Since then, more victims have come forward.
The Arrests and Charges
On June 11, 2025, authorities arrested two men:
- Rong Xi Yu, 46, the franchise owner of August 8 Sushi Restaurant, was charged with:
- Three counts of trafficking in persons
- Three counts of receiving material benefit
- Possession of property obtained by crime (over $5,000)
- Six counts of unauthorized employment of foreign nationals under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- Wenjun Li, 27, the head chef of the restaurant, was charged with:
- Three counts of trafficking in persons
- Three counts of receiving material benefit
- Three counts of withholding or destroying identity documents
- Three counts of sexual assault
- Six counts of unauthorized employment of foreign nationals under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Both men have been held in custody pending a bail hearing in Milton.
Advertisement
The Ongoing Investigation
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is continuing to investigate the case and is urging anyone with information or who believes they may be a victim to come forward. The Human Trafficking Unit is leading the investigation, and Detective Scott Heyerman is asking the public to contact him at 905-825-4747, ext. 4973 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The Community’s Role in Uncovering the Abuse
This case highlights the vital role of community awareness and the courage of those who speak out. Halton police believe that the victims’ courage to share their stories has led to the discovery of this exploitation ring, and they encourage others to report suspicious activities.
Rong Xi Yu and Wenjun Li have not faced trial yet, and the court has not proven the charges against them. As the investigation progresses, authorities urge the community to remain vigilant and report any relevant information.
Advertisement
More…
- https://www.cp24.com/local/halton/2025/06/17/gta-restaurant-owner-head-chef-charged-after-allegedly-exploiting-foreign-workers
- https://www.oakvillenews.org/police-beat/sushi-restaurant-investigation-leads-to-labour-trafficking-charges-10821490
- https://toronto.citynews.ca/2025/06/18/oakville-men-charged-human-trafficking-sushi-restaurant-migrant-workers
Advertisement
