2 suspects arrested after month-long violent carjacking spree across GTA

Toronto police have arrested two men in a series of violent carjackings that took place across the GTA over the past two months.

The multi-jurisdictional investigation, dubbed Project Tyga, identified 19 carjackings in Toronto, Peel Region, and York Region, and led to the recovery of 17 stolen vehicles.

“The estimated total value of vehicles obtained from this one month crime spree range from $1 million to $1.5 million,” said Toronto Police Inspector Rich Harris. “The suspects used extreme violence towards the victims while committing these acts, with the sole intention of stealing these vehicles for profit.”

Police said the victims were subject to violent physical assaults even when complying to the suspects demands.

https://youtu.be/TMKBwfLKTC4

The investigation began in March when several high-end vehicles were stolen from owners across the three jurisdictions.

Police allege the suspects would identify a prospective vehicle to steal while travelling highways in the GTA in stolen vehicles. The suspects would follow the vehicles off highways and wait for them to stop, either at an intersection or the victim’s destination. Once the victim’s vehicle stopped, the suspects would then approach and force the victims out by threatening them.

“These are violent, violent individuals and for the most part the victims were minding their own business going about their regular routines and ambushed,” said Harris.

“Whether physically injured or not, we know that these types of crimes have an undeniable and traumatic effect on those involved,” added Toronto Police Supt. Mike Barsky.

Police say some of the victims were carjacked after parking at their own residences.

https://youtu.be/_3LAu9YeM3U

In a carjacking caught on camera in underground parking lot at Yorkdale Mall, the suspects appear to unsuccessfully attempt to steal a 2016 Toyota Scion, before forcing a victim out of a 2015 Honda Civic and taking off in the vehicle.

https://youtu.be/rXJyqdYCS10

On April 11, officers executed a search warrant at a hotel room in Mississauga that was linked to the two suspects. They seized numerous weapons and ammunition, as well as stolen vehicle keys, stolen identification, and a key reprogramming device.

On the same day, police arrested 22-year-old Merrick Beddaoui and 19-year-old Christopher Ugochukwu, both from Toronto. The pair face several theft and weapons charges, including 18 counts of robbery.

Police have also arrested two women linked to the same hotel room. Both 24-year-old Teianna Henry of Brampton and 24-year-old Delisa Miller of Toronto are facing multiple weapons charge.

Above: Allegedly seized by police in Project Tyga. HANDOUT/Toronto Police Service