Arrest Made and Canada-Wide Warrant Issued in 2021 Homicide
Ontario Provincial Police have announced a significant development in a multi-year homicide investigation, with one London man now in custody and a Canada-wide warrant issued for a second. Elias Akhi, 32, of London, was arrested on Tuesday and is now facing serious charges, including first-degree murder, related to the 2021 death of Giovanni Costa, 65, in Bolton.
Chronology of a Violent Crime Spree
The investigation connects several violent incidents across Southern Ontario. According to police, the case began on November 12, 2020, when York Regional Police responded to a shooting on Steeles Ave. W. in Vaughan. One victim was transported to the hospital with gunshot wounds.
The investigation intensified on January 18, 2021, when Caledon OPP officers were called to a residence on Harvest Moon Dr. in Bolton for another shooting. Inside the home, police discovered two individuals who had been shot. One was the same victim from the Vaughan incident months prior. Tragically, the second victim, Giovanni Costa, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ongoing Manhunt and Police Appeal
In addition to the arrest of Elias Akhi, authorities have issued a Canada-wide warrant for Waheed Barakziye, 48, also of London. Barakziye is wanted on charges of first-degree murder, two counts of attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.
OPP Det.-Insp. Steven Martell provided a statement indicating the suspect could be anywhere. "While Waheed Barakziye is known to frequent London and the Greater Toronto Area, we are also investigating information that he may have fled the country," Martell said. He urged the public, "If you see this individual, do not approach. Call 911 immediately."
With this latest arrest, a total of four individuals have now been charged in connection with this complex investigation, which also involves two attempted murders from 2020 and 2021.
The Ontario government is offering a substantial $50,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Giovanni Costa's murder. The investigation remains active and is being led by the Caledon OPP Crime Unit under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Caledon OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or to provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
