8 teens arrested in Ontario car theft, organized crime investigation: police

NIAGARA – Niagara police say they have arrested nine people, including eight teenagers, in a far-reaching auto theft investigation that led them from southern Ontario to Montreal, where stolen cars were being prepared for export overseas. 

Police say what began as a probe into a single stolen Lexus grew into a complex investigation that revealed multiple alleged organized crime groups stealing high-end vehicles across southern Ontario.

They say they have charged nine people believed to be responsible for more than 112 car thefts in the Niagara Region, the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding communities including Hamilton, London and Waterloo.

Investigators believe more suspects could be connected to more than 100 additional thefts and warrants have been issued for a 20-year-old from North Dumfries, Ont., and a 22-year-old from Quebec.

Police made their first arrests in January, when they charged two 17-year-olds from St. Catharines with theft and possession of property obtained by crime, among other offences. 

In April, police say they arrested an 18-year-old and 23-year-old, both from Hamilton, on theft, trafficking and weapons charges. 

In mid-May, five teens between the ages of 16 and 17 were arrested on similar charges. 

In collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency, RCMP, Ontario Provincial Police and Montreal police, investigators say they recovered numerous stolen vehicles at the Port of Montreal that were being prepared to be shipped to West Africa.

Investigators anticipate further arrests and charges in the coming weeks as the investigation continues. 

Police are asking the public to always lock their vehicle doors, park their cars in well-lit areas or secure locations whenever possible and consider tagging their vehicles with tracking devices for additional protection.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2026.