Six Individuals Face Charges in Violent GTA Carjacking Investigation
Peel Regional Police have announced charges against six people from the Greater Toronto Area in connection with a series of violent armed carjackings. The accused collectively face 30 offences, and authorities have recovered eight vehicles valued at approximately $800,000, along with two replica firearms. This development stems from Project Stratis, an intensive probe into four incidents that occurred between January 18 and February 1 across Peel Region and the GTA.
Details of the Carjacking Incidents and Recovery Efforts
According to police, the suspects allegedly targeted primarily Mercedes-Benz models during the carjackings. The investigation revealed that the group was not only involved in the robberies but also arranged for the stolen vehicles to be re-vinned and resold or shipped overseas to Ghana. With assistance from Toronto Police, Ontario Provincial Police, and the Canada Border Services Agency, officers executed multiple search warrants. These operations led to the recovery of vehicles and the seizure of firearms from various locations, including storage lockers, an auto body shop, and sea containers.
During a news conference, Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the severity of the violence, stating, "We're talking about people leaving grocery stores, maybe coming home from work, being carjacked by armed individuals." He highlighted one offender, Steve Walsom-Gerigs, who has a history of violent offences and was allegedly involved in these crimes shortly after completing a prison sentence.
Charges and Background of the Accused
The six individuals charged include:
- Steve Walsom-Gerigs, 36, of Mount Forest, Ontario, faces multiple counts of robbery, conspiracy, and other charges related to property crime.
- Rainer Fernando, 37, of Toronto, is charged with robbery, conspiracy, and possession of property obtained by crime.
- Matthew Hymers, 21, of Listowel, Ontario, faces charges including conspiracy to commit robbery.
- Bradley Walsom, 38, of Brampton; Steven (Gisselle) Lopez, 22; and Samson Igbasan, 20, both of Toronto, are all charged with possession of property obtained by crime.
Detective Jeff Chamula noted that two of the accused, Fernando and Lopez, were arrested at Toronto Pearson International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Ghana. Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich described the group as organized criminals who orchestrated carjackings and exported vehicles out of the country.
Trends in Auto Theft and Ongoing Efforts
Despite the recent charges, Peel Regional Police report that auto theft has decreased by 20% and carjackings by 79% compared to the same period last year. However, Chief Duraiappah acknowledged that more work is needed to address public safety concerns, as many residents feel fearful. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact police or Peel Crime Stoppers anonymously.
