More than 30 stolen vehicles recovered, 3 arrested as police bust GTA car theft ring

Editor’s note, Jan. 9, 2025: The name of one of the men charged has been removed after charges were dropped.

Three men are facing more than 80 charges after police busted a multi-million dollar car theft ring in York Region, recovering dozens of stolen vehicles in the process.

Investigators with York Regional Police, in conjunction with Peel Regional Police and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), began an investigation back in May 2023 and were able to identify three suspects.

While executing eight search warrants, officers recovered 31 stolen vehicles valued at $2.8 million. Police also seized $30,000 in cash, police scanner devices, key re-programmers and more than 100 master keys.

Photo: York Regional Police

The trio of suspects are facing 83 charges including motor vehicle theft. The accused have been identified as:

• Ranvir Saggi, 24, of Richmond Hill
• Jasman Pannu, 21, of Brampton

One of the suspects was out on bail for charges related to vehicle theft at the time of their arrest, according to police.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is being asked to contact police.

Police offer tips to help prevent motor vehicle theft

York Regional Police are out with the following tips to help people prevent vehicles thefts:

• Park your vehicle in a locked garage, if possible
• Use a steering wheel lock — this can also act as a visible deterrent
• Install a lock on the data port — this device can be purchased online and blocks access to a vehicle’s computer port
• Purchase a quality video surveillance system and ensure the cameras are properly placed for day and night time use

“Thieves typically gain entry into vehicles by lock manipulation or by electronic means,” reads a YRP release. “The entire process only takes a few minutes.”

“Once inside, an electronic device is connected to a port below the dashboard and it programs the vehicle to accept a new key. Once the new key is programmed, the vehicle will start and the thieves drive it away.”

Toronto police are set to announced a new crime prevention campaign on Thursday to address fraud involving illegal motor vehicle sales in the GTA.