Peel police have announced that they’ve busted an alleged criminal network that used “fear and violence” to carry out auto thefts across the Greater Toronto Area. At a news conference Monday, investigators revealed the results of Project High Guard, an eight-month probe that resulted in 10 arrests, 128 charges, and the recovery of $1.4 million worth of stolen vehicles. Det. Sgt. Earl Scott told reporters at a news conference on Monday that the investigation began in March 2026. He said the team focused on 21 incidents of violent carjackings and high-end vehicle thefts that occurred in the region between June 2025 and April 2026. Some of the carjackings left victims with “severe injuries” he said, and the suspects involved would often brandish knives, firearms, and carry out assaults in committing their crimes. Police said that, as the investigation progressed, the evidence led to individuals beyond those carrying out the robberies, which Scott said underscored the sophistication and organization of the suspects involved. “Several individuals were identified as participating in this criminal network, with distinct roles ranging from planning, organizing, and carrying out the offences,” he said. “Some of the individuals targeted vehicles, some coordinated the offences, some carried out the robberies, some recruited younger individuals to participate, some made arrangements to sell the stolen vehicles.” 15 vehicles were recovered as a result of the investigation, the majority of which appear to be BMWs.
