Authorities have successfully shut down a significant illegal alcohol distribution network in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) following a thorough investigation lasting four months. The operation, valued at over $1.3 million, involved the trafficking of stolen alcohol that was traced back to organized theft groups.
Halton Regional Police, in cooperation with the LCBO and Toronto Police Service (TPS), spearheaded the probe that targeted a group accused of purchasing and reselling liquor stolen from LCBO stores. The investigation uncovered connections to ten distinct organized theft rings responsible for the distribution of the stolen alcohol. Much of the illicit liquor was either sold directly from a North York residence or delivered to buyers throughout the GTA.
In a significant breakthrough on Nov. 20, authorities executed search warrants at a North York home, confiscating approximately $120,000 in cash, along with three vehicles – a Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, and Chevrolet Corvette – and 126 bottles of whiskey.
Three individuals from North York – Parminder Sidhu, 52, Rajinder Sidhu, 56, and Navdeep Sidhu, 25 – were apprehended in connection with the operation. They face charges of possession of property obtained through crime over $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime exceeding $5,000, trafficking in property acquired through crime surpassing $5,000, and participating in a criminal organization. Following their arrests, all three were released pending a scheduled court appearance in Toronto.
Inspector Raf Skwarka of HRPS Investigative Services emphasized the importance of maintaining safe environments for the community, expressing disdain for the individuals involved in the illicit operation. He commended the collaborative efforts that led to bringing the accused to justice and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat organized retail crime to ensure public safety.