A man and woman from Mississauga are facing charges in connection with a “romance scam” that allegedly involved victims in both Canada and the United States, Toronto police say. Police say the investigation was conducted with the assistance of officers at 23 and 14 divisions, along with the Ministry of Finance and members of the Mass Marketing section of the Financial Crimes Unit. According to police, the accused used online dating apps to contact victims who lived in “various locations” both north and south of the border. Police allege the suspect used the alias Hronek Radko and an unknown person’s face as his profile image and used fraudulent identification to deceive his victims. “The accused purported to be a successful businessman residing in the GTA and operating a business called Ocean Global Auto Ltd. Or Ocean Auto,” police said in a news release issued Friday. One a relationship was established with the victim online, the suspect, police allege, persuaded victims to loan out large sums of money to assist with the business. “Once money was sent, the accused ceased communication with the victims and used the funds for personal gain,” police said. The investigation culminated in the execution of a search warrant on a vehicle and residence in Mississauga on Jan. 21, 2026. “This resulted in the seizure of evidence and arrests,” the news release read. Charles Azi, 36, of Mississauga, has been charged with fraud over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. Police also say 42-year-old Patricia Azi has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. They are scheduled to appear in court at a later date. ‘A timely warning’ “This investigation is a timely warning to the public as romance scams consistently increase in the days and weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day,” police said. “Romance scammers exploit trust, emotion, and the desire for connection. They often present themselves as successful, credible professionals and invest significant time building relationships online before requesting money.” Investigators say members of the public can protect themselves against these types of fraud by spotting the signs ahead of time. Some of the red flags, police say, include a new online relationship that escalates quickly and discourages in-person meetings. People should also be weary of claims of wealth or business success paired with “sudden financial problems,” police added. Police say if you feel pressure, urgency, or emotional manipulation to provide cash to a person you met online, that is also a sign of a scam. Be skeptical of anyone who sends instructions to send funds by bank draft, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or to a business account, investigators added. Police also urge members of the public to talk to a trusted friend or family member before sending cash. “Romance scams are not about poor judgment,” police said. “They are highly organized, deliberate frauds that rely on social engineering and play on emotion.”
