A major blow has been dealt to a violent criminal organization operating within the Greater Toronto Area’s towing industry. Peel Regional Police announced the arrests of eighteen individuals facing nearly 100 charges, stemming from an extensive investigation dubbed Project Outsource.

According to Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah, the organization had spread fear and violence throughout the community since 2023. The arrests, announced on June 16th, represent a significant step towards dismantling this network.

Project Outsource was launched in July 2024 in response to a dramatic surge in violent extortions targeting South Asian business owners. Chief Duraiappah described the tactics employed as terrifying, including drive-by shootings and arsons, all intended to intimidate victims into paying hefty sums or facing worse repercussions.

This significant operation underscores the ongoing battle against organized crime within seemingly legitimate industries. The details surrounding the charges and ongoing investigations will undoubtedly be closely followed in the coming weeks and months.