Peel Regional Police have laid charges against a 70-year-old Brampton man following a disturbing incident where a woman was allegedly confined after being tricked by a rideshare impersonator.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The investigation began after an incident on December 8, 2025. Police allege that the accused, posing as a rideshare driver, picked up a female victim in his vehicle—a grey 2008 Nissan Altima—from the Trinity Common mall in Brampton.
According to investigators, the victim realized the driver was not her booked rideshare service after he began driving. When she asked him to stop and let her out, she was allegedly confined against her will.
Arrest and Public Appeal
Goutam Banerjee, 70, of Brampton, was arrested on December 9, 2025. He now faces a charge of forcible confinement.
A significant concern for police is the possibility of additional victims. Investigators are urging anyone with information about this incident, or who may have had a similar experience, to come forward.
Peel Regional Police's 21 Division criminal investigation bureau can be reached at 905-453-2121, extension 2133. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at peelcrimestoppers.ca.
Regional Crime Briefs
Newmarket Break-Ins: York Regional Police are searching for a male suspect in connection with six commercial break-and-enters in Newmarket on December 7. The suspect, described as a white male between 5'10" and 6' tall with a medium build and a distinct slow gait, targeted cash registers and boxes. Police remind businesses not to leave cash on-site overnight.
Toronto Hate Crime Charge: Toronto Police have charged Andrew Howes, 35, of Toronto, with public incitement of hatred and seven counts of uttering threats. The charges are in relation to alleged hate-motivated threats made via social media against members of the Muslim community between October 13 and November 28, 2025.
Hamilton Shooting Investigation: Hamilton Police are investigating a shooting that occurred on a footpath near Melvin Avenue, east of Talbot Street, in the early hours of December 19, 2025. Officers located over 20 bullet casings from two types of ammunition. No injuries or damage were reported.
Firearm Found at R.I.D.E. Stop: In Whitby, an 18-year-old Clarington man, Armaan Ali Osmani, faces multiple charges including impaired operation and firearm-related offences. The charges stem from a Festive R.I.D.E. stop on December 18 where a loaded handgun was allegedly found in the vehicle.
