Theft of one Lexus uncovers large-scale southern Ontario auto theft ring

Police say a sprawling organized auto theft network operating across southern Ontario is linked to more than 100 vehicle theft investigations involving millions of dollars in stolen vehicles destined for overseas markets.

The investigation, dubbed Project Jack Links, began in April 2025 after the theft of a single Lexus SUV in the Niagara area. According to Niagara Regional Police Service, what initially appeared to be an isolated theft quickly expanded into a large-scale probe targeting organized criminal groups operating throughout southern Ontario.

Investigators say more than 50 thefts and attempted thefts involving newer-model Lexus and Toyota vehicles were examined in the Niagara region alone, with estimated losses across southern Ontario exceeding $20 million.

Police allege the criminal groups operated independently but shared a common goal — stealing high-end vehicles and transporting them out of Ontario before they were ultimately trafficked overseas for resale.

The investigation stretched across several communities in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond, including Mississauga, Oakville, Hamilton, Toronto, Burlington, Brantford, London, Waterloo and Cambridge.

Investigators say the suspects are believed to be connected to more than 112 motor vehicle theft-related incidents.

The probe involved several police agencies and enforcement partners, including Peel Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency and police services in Hamilton, Halton and Montreal.

Authorities said numerous stolen vehicles were recovered at the Port of Montreal before they could be shipped overseas. Investigators believe the vehicles were destined for ports in West Africa.

As part of the investigation, police executed multiple search warrants across southern Ontario, including coordinated raids in Hamilton, Mississauga and Oakville.

Police announced charges against several suspects, including Hamilton residents 18-year-old Nemr Alawad and 23-year-old Farouk Alawad. The pair face multiple charges connected to auto theft, possession of stolen property and conspiracy offences. Several youths between the ages of 16 and 17 were also arrested, but cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Investigators have also issued warrants for 20-year-old Ryan Ramayah Permauloo of North Dumfries and 22-year-old Mamadi Kaba of Quebec.

Police say the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests and charges are expected.

Niagara police Chief Bill Fordy said the case highlights the growing reach of organized auto theft operations across Ontario and Canada.

“What started as the theft of a single vehicle quickly uncovered a much larger and highly coordinated criminal operation spanning several jurisdictions,” Fordy said in a statement.

Police continue to encourage residents to take precautions against vehicle theft, including locking vehicles, removing keys and valuables, parking in well-lit areas and using steering wheel locks or tracking devices where possible.