Toronto Police Arrest Trio in $1M Construction Worker Disguise Theft Ring
Three men have been arrested and charged in connection with a sophisticated theft ring that allegedly stole more than $1 million worth of items from high-end residences across Toronto and York Region. The suspects are accused of disguising themselves as construction workers to carry out daytime break-and-enters, targeting over 30 apartments and condominiums.
Details of the Investigation and Charges
Toronto Police made the arrests following a six-month-long investigation dubbed "Project Compass." In a release issued on Tuesday, authorities alleged that the men used their disguises to blend in and avoid suspicion while committing the thefts. The stolen items included jewelry, precious metals, foreign and domestic currency, family heirlooms, and other valuables.
The suspects were identified as Mindia Jintcharashvli, 41, and Valeri Mandaria, 35, both from Vaughan, and Imeda Khabuliani, 49, from Toronto. Police reported that the trio used a newer model silver Jeep Compass during their alleged crimes.
Specific Charges Filed Against the Accused
Jintcharashvli and Mandaria face multiple charges, including:
- Two counts of possession of proceeds of crime
- Two counts of possession of break-in instruments
- 21 counts each of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- 21 counts each of disguise with intent
- 21 counts each of break and enter
Khabuliani is charged with:
- One count of possession of proceeds of crime
- Five counts each of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Five counts each of disguise with intent
- Five counts each of break and enter
Police Seek Additional Victims and Information
Authorities believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Police have released images of the men and the vehicle involved in the thefts to aid in the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-1400 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
Separate Incident: Double Stabbing in Oakville
In an unrelated case, a 54-year-old man has been charged after a double stabbing in Oakville. Halton Regional Police responded to a residence near Lakeshore Road West and Great Lakes Boulevard on Sunday around 10 a.m., where they found two stabbing victims with serious injuries.
The victims, whose genders and ages were not released, remain in serious but stable condition in hospital. The accused was arrested at the scene and faces two counts of aggravated assault. Police stated that they will not identify the accused to protect the identity of the victims.
