24 arrested following months-long investigation into ‘violent criminal acts’ across GTA

Peel police officer and cruiser. Photo: Nick Westoll/CityNews.

Twenty-four people are facing a total of 54 charges in connection with a months-long investigation into violent criminal acts and tractor-trailer cargo thefts throughout southern Ontario.

Peel Regional Police say earlier this year, investigators began to focus on an emerging organized crime group operating throughout the GTA.

“The suspects used violence, intimidation and financial reward to recruit members and commit criminal acts throughout southern Ontario,” police said in a release issued Saturday. “This group is believed to be responsible for multiple weapons offences, cargo thefts and drug trafficking.”

Among the charges laid are uttering death threats, possession of property obtained through crime, mail theft, fraud, possession of controlled substances and numerous weapons offences.

In addition a search of 14 locations associated with the suspects led to the seizure of 10 stolen vehicles valued at over $1 million, stolen heating and air-conditioning units valued at more than $460,000, illegal drugs with a value of more than $25,000 and four firearms.

“Investigators would like to thank the Criminal Intelligence Services of Ontario, Canada Border Services Agency, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Police Service, York Regional Police Service, Halton Regional Police Service, Peterborough Police Service and Vancouver Police Service.”

Police say the investigation is ongoing and anyone with additional information is asked to contact them.