Photo from CTV News.
Peel Regional Police have announced significant progress in dismantling a highly organized auto theft operation, dubbed Project Odyssey. According to authorities, the operation began in October 2023 and targeted a criminal network responsible for orchestrating the theft and export of hundreds of vehicles, primarily destined for foreign markets. In a press conference held on Monday, Peel police revealed that 16 suspects have been arrested, while arrest warrants have been issued for another 10 individuals involved in the illicit scheme.
During the course of Project Odyssey, a total of 322 charges have been laid against 26 suspects. Notably, police highlighted that 14 of these suspects were already out on some form of release or bail for previous auto theft-related offenses, underscoring the recurring nature of the criminal activity. Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the magnitude of the investigation, stating that it represents the force's most significant crackdown on auto theft to date.
The operation led to the recovery of 369 stolen vehicles, including two transport trucks, with a combined value estimated at $33.2 million. These vehicles were seized both within Peel Region and at the Port of Montreal, indicating the extent of the criminal network's reach. Detective Greg O'Connor outlined the modus operandi of the operation, revealing that a local trucking company was implicated in facilitating the transportation of stolen vehicles to the Port of Montreal. Investigators identified a family allegedly responsible for orchestrating the loading and shipment of stolen vehicles, highlighting the complicity of certain individuals within the transportation industry.
The stolen vehicles were transported from local "intermodal hubs" within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) along the 401 corridor to the Port of Montreal, where they were intended for export to overseas destinations, including ports in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. O'Connor stressed that evidence suggests the trucking company owners, workers, and operators were fully aware and complicit in the trafficking of stolen vehicles, indicating a high level of coordination within the criminal network.
Moreover, Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich underscored the persistent nature of auto theft in Peel Region, noting that last year alone, over 3,000 stolen cars were recovered. Despite concerted law enforcement efforts to combat auto theft, Milinovich highlighted the ongoing challenge posed by repeat offenders who continue to engage in criminal activities despite previous arrests and releases.
In response to community concerns and the escalating prevalence of auto theft, Peel Regional Police are committed to intensifying enforcement efforts and apprehending individuals involved in such criminal activities. Milinovich reiterated the message that Peel is not a conducive environment for car thieves, emphasizing the police force's determination to protect the community and deter future criminal endeavors.
In summary, Project Odyssey represents a significant milestone in the ongoing fight against auto theft in Peel Region. By dismantling a sophisticated criminal operation and apprehending multiple suspects, law enforcement authorities aim to disrupt the illicit trade of stolen vehicles and safeguard the community from the detrimental effects of organized crime.
