TORONTO - Seven down, 23 to go.

In the two weeks and two days since the federal government's unprecedented decision to seek public help finding 30 suspected war criminals hiding in Canada, seven are off the streets.

Some were nabbed when recognized by citizens after the Sun and most other media outlets ran their photos.

The CBSA released little information about the men, except to say they are wanted for violating "human or international rights" under the Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act, or international law.

One of the 30 was caught in Mississauga when an off-duty police officer spotted him in a store, two were deported after being arrested, and another is awaiting overseas deportation in Miami.

Public Safety Minister Vic Toews said Cesar Amilcar Chavarria Padilla's decision to give up last Tuesday to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in the GTA is a particularly noteworthy example of the public appeal's success.

"The very fact that this individual chose to surrender himself into CBSA custody illustrates how effective this approach has been," Toews said. "These suspected war criminals are feeling the pressure of having their names and faces known to Canadians."

Earlier, Toews said the "necessary measures" are underway "to protect the safety and security of our families and communities."

In an interview last weekend, he vowed to pressure justice department lawyers to use regulations that permit officials to release names, photos and descriptions of individuals whose backgrounds indicate they pose a danger.

After a CBSA boss revealed to the Toronto Sun that suspected war criminals and hardened foreign crooks were in Canada, Toews repeatedly praised Sun Media for bringing the problem to his attention.

Since the list of 30 suspected war criminals was released July 21, spokesman Luc Labelle said, "the CBSA has received more than 130 tips from the public and continues to receive calls.

CBSA officials urge the public never to try and apprehend suspects.

Instead, anyone with information on the whereabouts of the remaining 23 can reach the Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.

THE CBSA GALLERY: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/wc-cg/

We’re getting results! Now you can join the Sun Force and help us get the job done once and for all. You can send your tips to us at sun.force@sunmedia.ca or directly to the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060. Help us rid our neighborhoods of these wanted fugitives once and for all.