Canada arrests carjacking syndicate linked to shipping stolen vehicles to Ghana

An armed carjacking syndicate has been apprehended by Canadian authorities, with eight high-end vehicles valued at approximately $800,000 recovered before they could be resold or shipped overseas, particularly to Ghana.

The six accused persons, who are facing a total of 30 charges, were arrested during a major operation.

Two of the suspects were reportedly apprehended at Toronto Pearson International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Ghana.

According to a Canadian police report released on March 23, 2026, an investigation by the Central Robbery Bureau revealed that the suspects carried out violent attacks on vehicle owners between January 18 and February 1, 2026, across the Greater Toronto Area.

Detailing their methods, police stated that the syndicate primarily targeted high-end vehicles, with various models of Mercedes-Benz among their main targets.

The operation, dubbed Project Stratis, further revealed that the suspects not only carried out the robberies but also arranged for the stolen vehicles to be re-VINed and either resold locally or shipped overseas to Ghana.

With support from the Toronto Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police, and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), officers executed multiple search warrants, leading to the recovery of eight vehicles and the seizure of two replica firearms.

The stolen vehicles were discovered in storage lockers, an auto body shop, and shipping containers.

Six arrested in Canada over $800,000 car theft ring targeting Ghana market

The suspects are facing charges including robbery, conspiracy, possession of property obtained through crime, and laundering the proceeds of crime.

Speaking on the development, Chief Nishan Duraiappah of Peel Regional Police condemned the acts, stating that his team has made significant progress in dismantling such syndicates and curbing their criminal activities.

“Violent, armed carjackings and auto theft do more than steal property, they disrupt lives and take away a person’s sense of safety. No one should have to experience that. We have made significant progress in targeting these crimes and disrupting organized auto theft networks in our communities, and Project Stratis is another example of this critical work,” he said.

MAG/MA