Niagara police make 3 more arrests, recover 43 stolen vehicles in organized crime probe

A joint forces operation led by Niagara police has made three more arrests in connection with a large-scale drug trafficking and organized car theft investigation.

In September, “Project Road King” concluded its official takedown resulting, at that time, in 30 arrests, 213 charges, significant drug and firearm seizures, and the recovery of 38 stolen vehicles valued at more than $3.3 million.

Police said the investigation focused on dismantling networks responsible for large-scale drug trafficking while also addressing related criminal activity, including organized car theft.

Since the takedown, Niagara police have been engaged in the extensive processing and forensic analysis of seized evidence, including numerous electronic devices.

Along with the CBSA, detectives also recovered 43 additional stolen vehicles valued at more than $3.8 million. The vehicles were located at a port in British Columbia and were destined for international shipment.

Three individuals were taken into custody on Feb.18 and 19. Officers said their efforts are ongoing to find and arrest a fourth person, who remains outstanding.

Keir McColl, 39, of Ancaster is facing the following criminal charges:
• Conspiracy to Traffic Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000;
• Conspiracy to Commit Theft Over $5000;
• Conspiracy to Intimidate by Threats of Violence;
• Unlawfully Producing Fentanyl;
• Possession of Cocaine for the Purposes of Trafficking;
• Failing to Comply with Release Order.

Tudor Sopterian, 32, of Hamilton is facing the following criminal charges:
• Conspiracy to Traffic Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
• Conspiracy to Commit Theft Over $5000
• Conspiracy to Intimidate by Threats of Violence
• Unlawfully Producing Fentanyl
• Failing to Comply with Release Order

Dejan Zlojo, 43, of Etobicoke is facing the following criminal charges:
• Conspiracy to Traffic Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
• Conspiracy to Commit Theft Over $5000

An arrest warrant for 58-year-old Nikola Scepanovic of Burlington for the following charges:
• Conspiracy to Traffic Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000;
• Conspiracy to Commit Theft Over $5000.

McColl, Sopterian, and Zlojo all remain in custody, following bail hearings.

Police said Project Road King remains an active investigation, and further charges are anticipated.

READ MORE: Niagara police joint-forces operation recovers stolen cars, guns and thousands in illegal drugs