Niagara police have announced that they arrested nine individuals, including eight teenagers, as part of an extensive auto theft investigation that extended from southern Ontario all the way to Montreal, where stolen vehicles were being readied for export abroad.
This investigation started with a single stolen Lexus but quickly developed into a complicated case involving multiple alleged organized crime groups involved in stealing luxury cars throughout southern Ontario.
According to police, they have charged nine suspects believed to be linked to over 112 car thefts across the Niagara Region, the Greater Toronto Area, and nearby places like Hamilton, London, and Waterloo.
Authorities suspect there may be more individuals connected to an additional 100 thefts, and warrants have been issued for a 20-year-old from North Dumfries, Ont., and a 22-year-old from Quebec.
The initial arrests happened in January when two 17-year-olds from St. Catharines were charged with theft and possession of property obtained through criminal means, among other charges.
In April, law enforcement apprehended an 18-year-old and a 23-year-old from Hamilton on charges related to theft, trafficking, and weapon possession.
By mid-May, five teenagers aged between 16 and 17 faced similar charges following their arrest.
Working alongside the Canada Border Services Agency, RCMP, Ontario Provincial Police, and Montreal police forces, investigators recovered several stolen vehicles at the Port of Montreal that were set to be shipped out to West Africa.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities expect further arrests and additional charges soon.
Police remind everyone always to lock their vehicle doors, park in well-lit or secure areas whenever possible, and think about using tracking devices on their vehicles for added safety.
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