Human trafficking investigation leads to discovery of guns and cocaine in Ajax

What began as a human trafficking investigation resulted in the discovery of guns and cocaine in an Ajax home, Durham Police report.

Back in November, the Durham Human Trafficking Unit launched an investigation into a man they believed was trafficking women. Investigators also believed the man possessed a firearm illegally.

The Human Trafficking Unit and the Robbery Unit raided a couple of homes in Ajax on Dec. 11 and arrested the suspect in the process. Police say he had a pistol tucked into his waistband when arrested.

Additionally, police report they found two more guns, cocaine and several electronic devices during the raids.

Mario K. Francis, 35 of Ajax, faces 17 total charges including:

• three counts of possession of a loaded restricted or prohibited firearm
• three counts of possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm without a licence
• possession of a prohibited device
• carrying a concealed weapon
• three counts of careless storage of a firearm
• occupying a vehicle with a firearm
• tampering with a firearm’s serial number
• possession of cocaine
• three counts of failure to comply with probation

Francis remains in custody pending a bail hearing. Anyone with information can call police at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).