Durham Police Launch Manhunt for Four Suspects in Whitby Break-In Spree
Durham Regional Police have intensified their search for four suspects believed to be part of an organized crime group responsible for at least 20 break-and-enter incidents across Whitby. The investigation, dubbed Project Sonoma, was initiated between November 2025 and February 2026 to target this small but active criminal network.
Suspects and Charges Detailed
The individuals sought by authorities include Ion Dulceanu, 25, of Toronto; Madalin-Florin Moldoveanu, 31, of Toronto; Ionel Dumitru, 52, of Toronto; and Victor Duduianu, 55, of Oshawa, who is currently in custody with another police service. All four face 20 counts of break-and-enter. Police allege that the suspects typically entered homes by smashing rear sliding-glass doors and targeted master bedrooms for high-value items.
In addition to the Durham charges, Dulceanu, Moldoveanu, and Duduianu are facing at least 21 charges with Halton Police and 39 charges with Toronto Police for similar offences. Dumitru and Duduianu also face at least six charges with York Regional Police. Authorities are urging anyone with cellphone, dash-cam, or surveillance footage related to these incidents to contact police at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1832 or Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Toronto Police Investigate Separate Assault and Robbery Cases
In a separate development, Toronto Police are seeking public assistance in identifying a man wanted for assault with a weapon. The incident occurred on Saturday around 3:15 p.m. in the McCowan Road and Highway 401 area. According to reports, the suspect, armed with a knife, approached a security booth, punched through the mesh window, and began stabbing the desk. The victim managed to escape unharmed, and the suspect fled on foot. He is described as having short grey or blonde hair, clean-shaven, and wearing a black leather jacket with blue jeans.
Toronto Police are also investigating a robbery that took place on Thursday around 7:30 p.m. near Front Street West and University Avenue. A taxi driver was reportedly cut with a knife by a male passenger who demanded money before fleeing. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. The suspect is described as 5-foot-8 with a medium build, wearing a dark jacket, cream-colored headphones, and carrying a black backpack.
York Police Appeal for Witnesses in Richmond Hill Crash
York Regional Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious two-vehicle collision in Richmond Hill on Sunday around 1 p.m. at Highway 7 East and Bayview Avenue. The crash involved an SUV and a motorcycle, with the SUV driver sustaining minor injuries and the motorcyclist transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Investigators are asking anyone with dash-cam footage or information to come forward by contacting police at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 6630 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
These incidents highlight ongoing efforts by law enforcement across the Greater Toronto Area to combat crime and ensure public safety. Authorities continue to rely on community tips and technological evidence to solve cases and apprehend suspects.
