It was called Operation Northern Spotlight and the OPP-led police initiative involving the sex trade has resulted in a dozen people facing 21 charges across Ontario.

46 police services were involved, including North Bay and West Nipissing Police.

Officials say police were able to ensure the safety of six people who had been working in the sex trade, including two under the age of 16.

Over 330 police officers, support staff and victim services engaged nearly 200 people, as part of the OPP-led effort.

It was part of an international operation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), RCMP and involved police services from Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia and the United Kingdom.

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