In a significant international crackdown, police in Ontario, Canada, have dismantled a major organized crime network involved in stealing luxury vehicles and smuggling them overseas. The operation, dubbed 'Project Chicadee,' has led to the arrest of 20 individuals, including eight persons of Indian origin, and the recovery of stolen cars valued at a staggering $25 million.
The Sophisticated Smuggling Network
Authorities described the operation as a highly sophisticated criminal enterprise. The gang utilized registered freight forwarding companies and relied on fraudulent documentation to ship the stolen vehicles. They exploited multiple ports across Canada to export mostly high-end luxury cars and SUVs to markets in West Africa and the Middle East.
The investigation was launched in August 2023 following a sharp increase in auto theft reports across the Greater Toronto Area. This concern was amplified by the staggering statistic that over 30,000 vehicles were stolen in Ontario in 2023 alone.
Massive Haul and Charges Laid
The police action resulted in the seizure of 306 stolen vehicles. All these cars were destined for countries including Syria, Iraq, Egypt, and Lebanon. In total, 134 criminal charges have been filed against the accused.
During coordinated raids in October and November, search warrants were executed at dozens of locations in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and one site in Quebec. These included residences, industrial sites, and vehicles. Beyond the cars, police confiscated over $190,000 in Canadian cash, three firearms, and industrial equipment like forklifts.
List of the Accused with Indian Links
Police clarified that while the 20 individuals worked together to facilitate the theft and smuggling operations, they did not operate as a single cohesive group. Among those charged, the following are of Indian origin:
- Amandeep Singh, 40
- Sukhwinder Kaloya, 53
- Raghbir Walia, 57
- Sandeep Kumar, 33
- Jiggerdeep Singh, 26
- Gurbaj Singh, 26
- Samina Kamran, 45
- Reena Damr, 21
The full list of the 20 arrested individuals includes Muhammad Mirza, Muhammad Malik, and others from diverse backgrounds.
Conclusion and Impact
This bust highlights the global nature of organized auto theft and the methods used by criminals to exploit international shipping channels. The 'Project Chicadee' investigation marks a critical blow to a network fueling the illegal overseas market for stolen luxury vehicles. The Ontario Police's extensive efforts underscore their commitment to tackling complex, cross-border criminal enterprises that affect local communities and international security.
