Hamilton Police have successfully dismantled a major organized retail theft ring that was operating across Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. This significant achievement comes after a thorough months-long investigation led by law enforcement.
The operation resulted in a series of well-coordinated raids, arrests made across different provinces, and the recovery of over $1 million worth of stolen goods, as confirmed by police authorities.
Dubbed Project Sommes, the investigation was launched in August 2025 by Hamilton police, targeting individuals believed to be involved in a string of large-scale thefts primarily aimed at various Shoppers Drug Mart stores in the city.
Law enforcement officials uncovered a complex criminal network connected to numerous theft incidents dating back to February 2024. The stolen merchandise was allegedly funneled to a man in Mississauga, who then distributed it to wholesalers, including AG Liquidation in Brampton.
On December 16, officers executed 16 search warrants across southern Ontario in connection with the case. Two suspects had reportedly traveled to Vancouver shortly before the raids and allegedly continued their theft activities there. They were apprehended by Vancouver police and are set to be returned to Hamilton for further legal proceedings.
A total of 21 individuals now face a collective 175 charges, ranging from a 75-year-old individual to three minors below the age of 18. Many of the accused were either already under release orders or had outstanding warrants when taken into custody.
Deputy Chief Ryan Diodati of Hamilton Police emphasized the adverse impact of retail theft, stating that such crimes have repercussions that extend beyond just the retailers themselves. He highlighted how repeated large-scale losses lead to higher prices and decreased product availability, affecting the entire community.
Peel Regional Police Deputy Chief Marc Andrews echoed these sentiments, underscoring the growing threat of organized retail crime in Canada. He stressed that such activities have wide-ranging consequences, impacting not only local businesses but also the general populace who ultimately bear the burden of these thefts.