11 people charged after Halton police seize $1.5M in stolen goods

Eleven people are facing theft-related charges after Halton police found five trucks filled with $1.5 million worth of stolen merchandise Tuesday.

The investigation is dubbed Project Kingfisher, which targeted an organized retail theft ring operating in Halton region and the surrounding areas.

Police say a group called “Buynsel” allegedly stole items from multiple stores – including electronics, power tools and personal care products – and would then sell them online.

The HRPS has recovered an estimated $2 million dollars in stolen goods and currency after a lengthy investigation, Project Kingfisher.
This is just one of 5 trucks of stolen goods seized.
More details on the investigation can be found here… https://t.co/13QIvrBceG pic.twitter.com/htkVqUYskR

— Halton Police (@HaltonPolice) December 8, 2022

“Retail theft is not a victimless crime. These thefts cost Canadian retailers billions of dollars a year,” said HRPS Superintendent Bob Gourley.

“It’s also a near certainty that people purchasing these items online had no idea they were buying stolen goods,” he said.

On Tuesday, officers executed warrants at several locations in Brampton, including a warehouse, five residences and multiple storage lockers.

Police seized over $1.5 million worth of stolen goods and more than $600,000 in cash.

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Satnampal Shawla, 34, of Bramptom and Shabani Lurtha, 32, of Toronto have both been charged with possession and trafficking of property obtained by crime exceeding $5,000.

Renata Szarkeziova, 36; Jesika Abkarovicova, 24; Zakelina Balazova, 30; Sandra Balazova, 26; Leonardo Rafael, 24; Martin Fatak, 44; Roman Stojka, 46; Rene Stojka, 32; and Sabel Lakatasova, 23, all of Brampton have each been charged with theft exceeding $5,000, possession and trafficking of property obtained by crime exceeding $5,000.

Officers are still seeking an additional suspect.

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