A major police operation in Canada has dismantled an organised carjacking network with links to Ghana, resulting in multiple arrests and the recovery of high-value stolen vehicles intended for overseas shipment.
The operation, led by Peel Regional Police and named Project Stratis, focused on a string of violent, armed carjackings reported across Peel Region and the Greater Toronto Area between January 18 and February 1, 2026. Investigators said the suspects primarily targeted luxury vehicles, particularly Mercedes-Benz models.
Police revealed that the group not only carried out the robberies but also developed a system to alter vehicle identification numbers, facilitating resale or shipment abroad.
“Officers determined the accused were not only carrying out the robberies but also arranging for the stolen vehicles to be re-vinned and resold or shipped overseas to Ghana,” the police said in a statement.
The investigation involved collaboration with the Toronto Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), leading to multiple search warrants. Authorities recovered eight stolen vehicles valued at approximately $800,000, along with two replica firearms. The vehicles were hidden in storage lockers, an auto body shop, and shipping containers, indicating a coordinated international operation.
In a key development, two suspects were arrested at Toronto Pearson International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Ghana, following intelligence provided by border officials.
In total, six individuals have been arrested and are facing 30 charges, including robbery, conspiracy, possession of property obtained by crime, and laundering the proceeds of crime.
Police officials say the operation is part of broader efforts to dismantle organised auto theft networks across the region. Data shows auto theft has fallen by 20% and reported carjackings have dropped 79% compared to the same period last year.
Chief Nishan Duraiappah stressed the impact of violent carjackings:
“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. Project Stratis demonstrates our ongoing efforts to target these crimes and disrupt organised auto theft networks.”
CBSA officials highlighted the role of intelligence-sharing in intercepting stolen vehicles and preventing suspects from fleeing the country.
Authorities warn that transnational vehicle theft operations are growing, with stolen cars increasingly moving through sophisticated international networks, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and cross-border cooperation.