Project Steel

Today, the RCMP announced the results of Project Steel, a nationwide, coordinated operation aimed at targeting online child sexual exploitation offenders while prioritizing the safeguarding of children.

A/Deputy Chief Courneyea along with D/Cst. Mayhew and K9 Pixel, attended the news conference to highlight the efforts in Durham Region. The two-week operation ran from February 17 to February 28, 2025, bringing together law enforcement agencies from across Canada.

In Durham Region, members of the Child Exploitation Unit executed seven search warrants, seized more than 90 electronic devices, identified six victims, safeguarded eight children and arrested two individuals.

To safeguard a child in an exploitation investigation means taking steps to protect the child from immediate and future harm while ensuring their well-being throughout the investigative process. This involves a combination of legal, social, and psychological measures aimed at minimizing trauma and preventing further exploitation.

For more information on our ICE unit and resources that are available please visit our website at https://www.drps.ca/community-safety-and-support/crime-prevention/internet-safety-and-child-exploitation/

Victim Services of Durham Region offers confidential support without judgement, available at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact Det. Dorego of the Internet Child Exploitation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5557.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

See RCMP’s news release here: https://rcmp.ca/en/news/2025/03/project-steel-leads-arrest-106-online-child-sex-offenders