Introduction

In a stunning turn of events, York Regional Police have unveiled a sophisticated car theft operation that connects Canada to Africa, revealing how modern vehicles are being stolen and reprogrammed for transport overseas. This is the concluding part of an explosive three-part investigative series by CTV W5, led by correspondent Jon Woodward.

Investigation Begins

The investigation began when Detective Scott Cresswell received a tip about a stolen Toyota pickup located on a lot in North Toronto, which was said to be bound for Africa. Expecting a routine search, Cresswell was astounded to uncover not just one, but multiple stolen vehicles, leading to a deeper investigation into the organized crime helping facilitate these thefts.

Raid on the Lot

In an exclusive look into the raid, the police team arrived at a lot on Rexdale Boulevard, where they displayed their search warrant to a hesitant gatekeeper. What followed was an intense operation as officers pried open shipping containers, revealing not only household goods but also an Acura MDX already reported stolen months prior.

Discovery of the Toyota

As dusk approached during the early November operation, the police finally located the sought-after Toyota. Inside, officers stumbled upon a generic key fob, strikingly similar to one W5 had successfully reprogrammed using a device purchased online, highlighting the alarming ease with which thieves can access modern vehicles.

Technology Exploited by Thieves

"I pressed a button on the key fob, and to my shock, it locked and unlocked the vehicle. Then, I climbed in and, without any original keys or authorization, the engine roared to life," Woodward recounted, showcasing the technology that car thieves exploit daily. Det. Cresswell confirmed the suspicion: "They’ve tied into the system with their programming tool and made a new key," indicating the potential for widespread theft aided by just a simple device.

Alarmingly Accessible Reprogramming Devices

The investigation brought to light the alarming fact that these reprogramming devices, which can often be purchased on platforms like Amazon and eBay, have become a staple tool for car thieves. Cresswell stated, "From previous investigations, we know thieves are buying them online, and this is how they pull off dramatic heists in under two minutes."

Statistics on Vehicle Theft

With over 70,000 vehicles stolen in Canada last year—resulting in a staggering $1.5 billion in insurance losses—the urgency for action has never been greater. Canadian authorities have since introduced criminal penalties for using these devices in thefts, as part of the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, although the availability of some of these tools remains a troubling loophole.

The Organized Crime Network

The organized nature of this crime is further underscored by the existence of middlemen who purchase stolen vehicles for as little as $8,000 to $12,000 and then ship them overseas for a significantly higher price, creating a lucrative market that thrives on illicit activities. In 2024 alone, York Region reported 64 violent carjackings—an increase of five times compared to 2019—while Toronto experienced a staggering 149, up 86% from previous years.

Hope for Disruption of Criminal Activities

Despite the frightening statistics and the apparent ease of vehicle theft, Det. Cresswell remains hopeful that ongoing police efforts will disrupt these organized crime networks. "We are committed to targeting their profits. This is how you hurt organized crime," he stated emphatically.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, concerns linger about the other facets of car crime, including a rise in carjackings and overnight break-and-enters. The needle has shifted, but authorities are determined to innovate strategies to outsmart those who exploit technology for crime.

Stay Tuned!

Stay tuned for more riveting updates on car theft and modern crime-fighting strategies as authorities battle to regain control of the streets!