A wave of fear is gripping communities in Caledon and Dufferin County as police investigate over 45 extortion cases since December 2023. These aren't random acts; they are calculated threats designed to instill terror and demand large sums of money.
Victims are receiving chilling phone calls and texts, often from individuals who demonstrate unsettling knowledge of their personal lives – their homes, their workplaces, even details about their routines. This suggests a targeted campaign, and investigators believe members of the South-Asian community are being specifically singled out.
The threats aren’t empty. Police are linking these extortion attempts to a disturbing surge in weapons incidents throughout 2024 and 2025. Properties have been damaged by gunfire, escalating the danger and reinforcing the severity of the threats.
If you receive a threatening communication, authorities urge you to report it immediately. Don't hesitate – your silence could embolden these criminals and put others at risk. Contact Caledon OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
Meanwhile, a sophisticated transport truck theft ring operating across Southern Ontario has been disrupted with the arrest of a man from Brampton. The investigation, dubbed “Project Long Haul,” uncovered a network responsible for stealing Freightliner trucks from secure facilities.
Between January and May of this year, the accused allegedly participated in multiple thefts and attempted thefts, amassing stolen vehicles valued at over $1 million. Police believe he is connected to an organized criminal group specializing in this type of theft.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, asking anyone with information to contact Det. Shaun Fennessy at 905-546-3849, Det. Staff Sgt. David Brewster at 905-546-2991, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
In a separate incident, Hamilton Police are investigating a stabbing that occurred Sunday evening near Inchbury St. and York Blvd. A 41-year-old man was found with multiple stab wounds and rushed to the hospital.
Quick action by responding officers provided crucial life-saving measures, and the victim is now in stable condition. Investigators are now meticulously reviewing security footage from the area, seeking any clues that might lead to the perpetrator.
Residents in the vicinity are asked to check CCTV, doorbell cameras, and dashcam footage for any suspicious activity between 4 and 5 p.m. on Sunday. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital. Contact Hamilton Police at 905-546-4725 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
