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Aurora man charged in bust of 'prolific auto theft ring' in GTA

Four people were arrested in the investigation that resulted in the recovery of 78 stolen vehicles worth more than $10 million, many targeted at Pearson airport, Peel police say
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An Aurora man is among four arrested in a joint forces investigation into a "prolific auto theft ring" in the Greater Toronto Area that resulted in the recovery of 78 stolen vehicles worth more than $10 million.

The more than three-month investigation named Project R&R involved several law enforcement agencies working in collaboration with border services officers and investigators from Canada Border Services Agency, as well as partners from the Port of Montreal and Équité Association, according to a Peel Regional Police new release.

These partnering agencies assisted in the recovery of several of the stolen vehicles, while many others were recovered within the Greater Toronto Area prior to being shipped overseas for resale, police said.

“In addition to the nearly 2,400 stolen vehicles recovered in 2022, our officers have recovered over 500 vehicles in the first two months of this year,” said Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah. “Canada has become a source for organized auto crime. The dedication of our officers as seen here today, combined with increased collaboration, enhanced enforcement and greater awareness will continue to make an impact in combating auto theft.”

Project R&R was initiated after a trend was identified related to the theft of vehicles, including Range Rovers, within the Region of Peel and the Greater Toronto Area, police said. 

"It is alleged that the group targeted specific vehicles at various locations, including Pearson International Airport. Methods of theft included targeted underground parking garages and residential neighbourhoods at night while victims slept," police said.

Investigators identified members of the group actively stealing vehicles and then identified shipping and loading locations. The stolen vehicles were loaded and secured within containers and transported by truck or train to the Port of Montreal to be exported overseas.

More than 25 containers were intercepted and held at various locations and ports, including Brampton, Montreal, Germany, and Spain. Many stolen vehicles were destined for the United Arab Emirates. 

In late December 2022, members of the investigative team executed seven search warrants across Peel resulting in the arrests, vehicle recovery, as well as the seizure of a prohibited magazine, Canadian and US currency, suspected cocaine seized, and a stolen ramp.

The following persons were arrested and charged with a combined total of 34 charges:

Michael Zureiqat, 48, of Aurora is charged with the following possession of property obtained x4, and fail to comply with release order .

Altayeb Brafcany, 29, of Mississauga is charged with: theft of motor vehicle x15; possession of property obtained by crime x6; fraud under $5,000; and use debit card not authorized. 

Imad Assi, 29, of Mississauga is charged with: theft of motor vehicle; possession of property obtained by crime; possession for the purpose of trafficking. 

Ref'At Faris Mustafa Khatabeh, 44, of North York is charged with possession of property obtained by crime x4.

To learn more about vehicle theft prevention, visit PeelPolice.ca .  

This investigation is ongoing and further arrests are anticipated. Anyone who may have information is asked to call investigators at 905-453–2121, ext.1133.  Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.