TORONTO — Police say they've recovered 78 stolen vehicles and arrested four people suspected of being part of an auto theft group that allegedly targeted cars in the Greater Toronto Area.
Peel Regional Police say officers executed seven search warrants and recovered the stolen vehicles, which they say were collectively worth about $10 million, in December.
They say a three-month investigation has resulted in the arrests of the four suspects, who range in age between 29 and 48.
The accused are facing a total of 34 charges including theft, fraud and possession of property obtained by crime.
Police say the group targeted specific vehicles at several locations including Toronto's Pearson International Airport, underground parking garages and residential neighbourhoods.
The stolen vehicles were loaded on containers and taken by truck or train to the Port of Montreal to be exported overseas.
Police say officers intercepted 25 containers in several locations, including Brampton, Montreal, Germany, and Spain. They say many of the stolen vehicles were destined for the United Arab Emirates.
Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said addressing the issue of auto theft is a priority for his force.
"In addition to the nearly 2,400 stolen vehicles recovered in 2022, our officers have recovered over 500 vehicles in the first two months of this year," he said.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 21, 2023.
The Canadian Press
