Authorities in York are seeking a young man in connection with a deceptive scheme involving a fabricated kidnapping and ransom plot.
According to investigators, in early 2026, an individual posing as a Chinese law enforcement officer contacted a youth, claiming the youth was involved in a financial crime inquiry. The youth was instructed to avoid Canadian authorities, reach out to the supposed Chinese police, and refrain from communicating with family until the investigation concluded.
The youth met the purported Chinese police representative at a shopping plaza near Woodbine Avenue and 16th Avenue on February 2. Subsequently, the youth was taken to what was believed to be a secure location in Mississauga, which was later discovered to be an Airbnb rental property.
On February 4, the youth received a message from an unidentified individual informing him that the investigation was over and he could return home. After returning home, the youth’s family contacted York Regional Police. Fortunately, no physical harm was reported in this incident.
Although a ransom request was allegedly made to the youth’s family, it was not complied with.
The suspect is described as a young man aged between 18 and 25, last seen sporting a black hooded jacket and glasses, possibly using the name Guan Yu Wu.
York authorities mentioned in a public statement, “This deceptive ploy seems to target young Chinese students who are new to Canada. Perpetrators resort to various falsehoods and intimidations to manipulate victims into meeting their demands and refraining from seeking help from local law enforcement.”
Individuals with any relevant information are urged to reach out to the police.