Mass Arrests in Canada Towing Scam Shake Ontario
Authorities in Ontario have rounded up 18 individuals suspected of orchestrating a massive criminal operation within the towing industry, seizing assets worth over 4.2 million Canadian dollars. Most of those detained are reportedly of Indian descent, marking a significant crackdown on extensive insurance fraud and violent extortion tactics.
How the Investigation Unfolded
The Peel Regional Police spearheaded the sting through a collaborative effort named Project Outsource, initiated in July 2024. This joint operation involved local and provincial police forces, including Ontario Provincial Police and Toronto Police Service, aiming to dismantle a network using the towing sector as a front for illegal activities.
Early findings showed two intertwined components within the operation: one focused on orchestrating extortion and violence, and another manipulating towing businesses to carry out fraudulent schemes.
Details on the Suspects and Charges
Among those arrested on June 10 were 17 men from Brampton and a woman from King City. The accused, facing a staggering 97 criminal charges, include names such as Inderjit Dhami, Paritosh Chopra, Gurbinder Singh, and Ketan Chopra, among others.
- Charges range from criminal organization involvement and extortion to fraud and firearms violations.
- Three suspects were released with court dates pending, while the other 15 awaited bail hearings.
- Notably, nearly half were already under some judicial release when arrested, spotlighting concerns regarding repeat offenders and the need for bail reform.
Modus Operandi: Fraud and Force in the Towing Sector
The criminal syndicate reportedly operated towing companies under names like Certified Roadside and Humble Roadside, using these entities to stage fake vehicle collisions and commit insurance fraud. The group also employed intimidation, assaults, and weapons to dominate local towing markets and coerce compliance.
Law Enforcement Responds to Rising Extortion
The rise of violent extortion in Peel Region, particularly targeting South Asian business owners, prompted the establishment of the Extortion Investigation Task Force in December 2023. This task force has worked to counter threats including monetary demands, violence, and even drive-by shootings linked to this criminal network.
Authorities’ Statement
Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the severity of repeat offenses among those arrested and called for urgent bail reforms. Ontario's Solicitor General highlighted that the success of Project Outsource demonstrates a firm commitment to confronting and dismantling criminal organizations that prey on communities through fear and fraud.
York Regional Police Superintendent Sony Dosanjh noted the importance of cross-agency collaboration in rooting out these networks and restoring public safety.
