Police in the Greater Toronto Area say they have dismantled an organized criminal network linked to the towing industry and seized tow trucks, stolen vehicles and weapons after an investigation into several extortion incidents.
Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah says the investigation dubbed Project Outsource is a blow to the alleged criminal organization that spread fear and violence in the community.
Police say they started investigating extortion incidents and related acts of violence in July 2024.
They allege several suspects associated with towing companies in the GTA were engaged in insurance fraud by staging vehicle collisions and using threats, assaults and firearms to control local towing operations.
A total of 17 men from Brampton, Ont., and one woman from King City, Ont., have been arrested and charged with a total of 97 offences.
Police say they seized 18 tow trucks, four personal vehicles, five stolen vehicles, six firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and two bulletproof vests.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 16, 2025.
The Canadian Press
