Ottawa man facing sexual assault charges in alleged immigration ruse

The sign outside Ottawa Police headquarters on Elgin St. is seen in this undated photo. (Aaron Reid/CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa police have arrested and charged a man following a sexual assault investigation involving an alleged ruse targeting international post-secondary students.

An investigation began last October into a man who police claim approaches students with an offer to help them with their immigration process.

Brice Piyau, 47, was arrested Wednesday. He is charged with sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, sexual assault with threats, forcible confinement and fraud under $5,000.

The charges have not been proven in court.

Ottawa police believe there could be other victims and are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 5944.

Tips may also be sent electronically to [e-mail]. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS).

“We acknowledge that making these types of reports can be difficult,” police said in a news release Thursday. “The Ottawa Police would like to reassure anyone wishing to make a report that we take all of these crimes very seriously and have supports available.”