Several people have been arrested in Metro Detroit connected to an international human trafficking ring.
According to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, it’s one of the largest ever uncovered in the state.
The investigation began last summer involving multiple agencies.
Seven to nine women of Chinese and Korean origin are believed to be victims of the alleged trafficking ring.
“The reason I’m saying seven to nine is because it’s not clear to us yet who was a victim and who might be a criminal defendant,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said.
Police conducted raids at four purported massage parlors Friday (Dec. 6): 111 Healing Studio in St. Clair Shores, AM Healing Studio in Sterling Heights, Magic Health Spa in Detroit, and 8 Star in Detroit.
“Through physical surveillance efforts our investigative team observed various members of this alleged criminal enterprise moving between parlors, airports, casinos and residences, and we’re able to piece together a clear picture of how this trafficking ring conducted its operations here in Michigan,” Nessel said.
Jingyu Jin, a 45-year-old Chinese national, is alleged to be the head of the trafficking ring. Jin is facing several charges, including conducting a criminal enterprise, accepting earnings from prostitution, and keeping a house of prostitution.
The others charged are Huazi Piao, Jon Villasurda Sr., Oumar Lougue, and Ming Li, an undocumented immigrant, according to the AG’s Office.
The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office announced charges against Michael Navoy in a separate release.
He’s accused of being involved in human trafficking and prostitution operating out of a Southgate home he owns.
“This operation has put an end to a significant human trafficking ring as large as any that we have uncovered here in the state of Michigan. And we believe this ring is only a part of a larger national criminal syndicate,” Nessel said.
Investigators encourage the public to be vigilant. The investigation in St. Clair Shores began with a tip.
“This is a great example of ‘see something, say something.’ In our town, at least, it started off with residents or citizens seeing something suspicious, taking that step to report it. Our detectives investigated, found out that it was much larger than we suspected,” St. Clair Shores Deputy Police Chief Paul Plaza said.
Those charged will be arraigned in the coming days.