Two Edmonton Men Faced with Serious Charges

In a startling revelation from Alberta, two men from Edmonton have been charged with human trafficking after a year-long investigation exposed their alleged exploitation of vulnerable workers. The Alberta RCMP has reported that the duo coerced their victims into grueling work schedules of up to 90 hours per week without adequate pay.

The Victims Behind the Scandal

The investigation uncovered four victims employed at a rural gas station and motel run by the father-son pair, Yeon Soo Lee, 55, and his son, Joo Hyup Lee, 26. These establishments are located in Fox Creek and Calmar, areas northwest and southwest of Edmonton respectively.

From Complaint to Investigation

The disturbing case came to light following a tip-off to the Alberta RCMP from the Alberta Employment Standards Office back in July 2024. It was revealed that the workers were subjected to harsh conditions, including false documentation that obscured the true nature of their working hours.

A Closer Look at Human Trafficking

RCMP Inspector Breanne Brown elaborated on the definition of human trafficking, which involves the recruitment, transportation, and confinement of individuals through force or deception for labor or sexual exploitation. In this instance, the suspects allegedly employed threats, manipulation, and deceit to control the foreign workers and misuse their labor.

Financial Exploitation and Rising Concerns

The father and son duo reportedly underpaid their victims by a shocking $160,000. RCMP Sergeant Roland Misik emphasized that cases of labor trafficking are becoming increasingly common, highlighting a significant uptick in investigations since the unit's establishment in 2022. While there were only 37 cases at the time, recent statistics show a troubling rise, with 21 cases involving labor trafficking alone in 2024.

Recognizing the Signs of Trafficking

Misik urged the community to be vigilant and look for warning signs of labor trafficking. Indicators such as workers showing signs of physical abuse, malnutrition, or exhaustion can suggest they are victims of exploitation.

Unraveling Further Allegations

Beyond the trafficking charges, investigators are also probing into potential money laundering activities linked to the Lee family. This case raises alarming questions about the plight of foreign workers and underscores the urgent need for vigilance against human trafficking.

Stay tuned for more updates as this shocking story develops.