Police are investigating a disturbing case involving hidden cameras discovered inside a women’s washroom at a factory in Whitby, with a custodian now facing dozens of criminal charges and investigators warning that more victims may have been affected.
The investigation began earlier this year after authorities received information suggesting that a hidden recording device had been placed inside the women’s washroom at a manufacturing facility located near Thickson Road and Tricont Avenue in Whitby, in Durham Region. Police launched a formal investigation on January 9 to determine whether individuals had been secretly recorded inside the workplace washroom.
According to investigators, the suspect worked as a custodian at the factory, which gave him access to various areas of the facility, including the washrooms. Police allege that a hidden camera was placed in the women’s washroom and used to secretly capture video and audio recordings without the knowledge or consent of those using the facility.
As part of the investigation, officers executed a search warrant on January 29 at a residence located near McCowan Road and Finch Avenue in Scarborough, Toronto. During the search, police arrested Francis Ambas, 45, of Toronto.
Investigators say they recovered a media card containing hidden video and audio recordings believed to have been taken from inside the washroom at the Whitby factory. After reviewing the evidence, police say they discovered numerous additional recordings that were allegedly captured using hidden cameras inside the facility.
Authorities believe the recordings may date back several years. Investigators say individuals who used the washroom between April 4, 2022, and January 29, 2026 may have been unknowingly recorded.
Because of the number of recordings uncovered during the investigation, police have laid 85 counts of voyeurism against the accused. He is also facing a charge for possession of a Schedule I substance.
Police say the large number of voyeurism charges reflects the number of incidents investigators believe occurred based on the video evidence recovered during the search.
The accused made his first court appearance on January 30 following his arrest. The case is expected to proceed through the court system as investigators continue reviewing the evidence.
Authorities are concerned that there may be additional victims who have not yet been identified, as the alleged recording activity may have continued over several years.
Police are urging anyone who may have used the washroom at the facility during the time period in question and believes they may have been affected to contact investigators.
Officials say workplace privacy violations of this nature are taken very seriously, and investigations are conducted thoroughly to ensure that all potential victims are identified and supported.
Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact police at 416-808-4100. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 416-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting the Crime Stoppers website.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine the full extent of the alleged offences and identify anyone who may have been impacted.
