Vaughan, Ontario — Yet another chop shop operation has been shut down in the GTA this week, as York Regional Police (YRP) shed light on an investigation into an auto repair shop in Vaughan that was allegedly re-VINing and selling stolen vehicles.
The YRP’s Auto/Cargo Theft Unit has charged four people in connection with the thefts of several stolen vehicles, including two Range Rovers, a Harley Davidson motorcycle and a 2022 Mercedes G Wagon AMG valued at $350,000, according to the police’s Wednesday press release.
The York Regional Police Auto/Cargo Theft Unit have charged 4 people following an investigation into vehicle thefts, re-vinning and trafficking of stolen vehicles connected to a vehicle shop called Royal Customs on Ritin Lane, in the City of Vaughan.https://t.co/nEE7CuySHp pic.twitter.com/IQcP0mViaI
— York Regional Police (@YRP) December 7, 2022
In addition to the stolen vehicles, license plates, re-vinning equipment, documents for changing vehicle registrations, multiple key fobs for reprogramming and three semi-automatic handguns with magazines and ammunition were also seized from the location.
Over the course of the investigation, police managed to link the thefts to Royal Customs on Ritin Lane in Vaughan.
With reports of auto theft steadily on the rise in Ontario, the YRP is offering residents the usual list of tips to help mitigate auto theft:
- If possible, park your vehicle in a locked garage, as the majority of the vehicles have been stolen from driveways
- Use a steering wheel lock. It will also act as a visible deterrent
- Install a lock on the data port. This simple device can be purchased online and blocks access to the computer port where the thieves gain access to reprogram the vehicle’s keys
- Consider purchasing a quality video surveillance system. Ensure cameras are properly placed and functioning for day and night time use. Familiarize yourself with the system so it can be reviewed and accessed immediately
