Hamilton, Ontario — Hamilton Police have arrested three individuals after a two-month-long investigation into criminal activity involving organized auto theft and a chop shop ring in Hamilton and Niagara Region.
The investigation, dubbed Project El Dorado, was conducted in partnership with the Insurance Bureau of Canada and police. The project took place at various locations in the Hamilton and Niagara Region.
Last week, investigators completed the project with the seizure of 20 stolen vehicles, numerous vehicle parts, a firearm and other suspected stolen items.
Two men from Hamilton were arrested as well as a man from the Niagara region.
Combined all three men are facing a total of 83 charges.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and ask anyone who has any information that could assist with this investigation to contact Detective Sean Woodard by calling 905-546-3820 or Detective Sergeant Andrea Torrie at 905-546-2991.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada estimates auto thefts cost Canadians close to $1 billion yearly, including $542 million for insurers to fix or replace stolen vehicles, $250 million in police, health care and court system costs and millions more for correctional services.
