Peel Regional Police have announced a significant breakthrough in a major auto theft investigation, resulting in the recovery of 369 stolen vehicles valued at $33.2 million. Dubbed “Project Odyssey,” the operation has so far led to the arrest of 16 individuals and the issuance of 10 additional arrest warrants.
Detective Greg O’Connor provided details of the investigation during a press conference on Monday. He explained that Project Odyssey began in October 2023 following a tip-off about stolen vehicles in a shipping area in Brampton, Ontario. Initial efforts led to the recovery of two stolen vehicles at that location.
The investigation gained momentum in December 2023 when police received intelligence about a transport truck loaded with stolen vehicles in Mississauga, Ontario. The truck was intercepted in Brampton, and the driver was taken into custody.
“This is a highly orchestrated criminal operation involving multiple individuals responsible for stealing vehicles through various methods, including violent carjackings,” O’Connor stated. “These vehicles were intended for overseas markets.”
In addition to the vehicles, police seized three transport trucks and two stolen Bobcat construction vehicles, which were being held at the yard. These items have been classified as offence-related property and confiscated.
To date, 26 suspects have been identified. Sixteen have been arrested and charged, facing a combined total of 322 auto-related charges. Once the outstanding arrest warrants are executed, the total number of charges is expected to reach 340.
Among those arrested are residents of Peel Region and other areas. Specific individuals charged include Clens Saint-Fleurant, 21, from Quebec, who was part of a group traveling from Quebec to the Greater Toronto Area to facilitate auto thefts. Also charged are G Jinder Singh, 29, from Bolton, who was involved in the loading and exporting of the stolen vehicles, and several others who were already on release orders for prior auto theft-related offences.
The individuals currently in custody and facing charges include Valir Singh, Alba John, Nura Claen, Muhammad Sidiki, AED Mayo, and Yol Alm.
“This operation marks the region’s most significant auto theft investigation to date,” O’Connor emphasized. “The success of Project Odyssey highlights the importance of coordinated efforts and timely intelligence in tackling organized crime.”
Peel Regional Police continue to urge anyone with information related to these individuals or the broader operation to contact them at 905-453-2121, extension 3313, part of the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau.
The investigation underscores the ongoing issue of auto theft in the region and the sophisticated networks involved in such crimes. The recovery of these vehicles not only represents a significant financial retrieval but also disrupts a major criminal enterprise aimed at exploiting international markets.
As the investigation progresses, authorities remain vigilant and committed to dismantling such networks and preventing further thefts. The collaboration between different law enforcement agencies has proven crucial in achieving these results, and further updates are anticipated as more suspects are apprehended and brought to justice.