Halton Police have arrested five individuals linked to a Greater Toronto Area auto theft ring. The investigation, dubbed Project Steel, began after a vehicle was stolen from a residence in Milton in mid-March. The victim's wallet was left in the car, and the suspects used their bank cards at a fast-food restaurant in the GTA.
Investigation and Arrests
Officers from the 1 District Auto Team identified the suspects and traced them to a Brampton residence. On April 1, police executed search warrants and arrested Aderyen Hadjarab, Zineddine Naas-Arabas, Ahmad Fares, and Rayan Cherchar. A fifth suspect, Mecipssa Ikkene, was arrested on June 2.
“Organized auto theft impacts our community on multiple levels and remains a priority,” said Kevin Magee of the 1 District Criminal Investigation Bureau. “Investigations like this demonstrate our commitment to dismantling these networks.”
Items Seized
Police seized over 20 items, including three vehicle reprogramming devices, three magnetic trackers, seven cell phones, four blank key fobs, break-in tools, clothing worn during thefts, fraudulently obtained medication, and fake identification from Ontario and Quebec.
Charges Filed
- Aderyen Hadjarab, 29, of Montreal: 45 charges, including 14 counts of motor vehicle theft and 28 counts of probation violation.
- Zineddine Naas-Arabas, 22, of Montreal: Six charges, including identity fraud and possession of break-in tools.
- Ahmad Fares, 33, of Laval, Que.: Charges include uttering a forged document and possession of an electronic device for auto theft.
- Rayan Cherchar, 20, of Mississauga: Five counts of motor vehicle theft and related charges.
- Mecipssa Ikkene, 23, of L’Assomption, Que.: 13 charges, including four counts of motor vehicle theft.
A warrant has been issued for Hamza Diazali, 20, of Laval, Que., for 25 offences, including 12 counts of motor vehicle theft.
All accused are in custody pending bail hearings in Milton. Several were out on release at the time of their arrests. Anyone with information can contact the 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.
