Toronto police seize $3.5M in fake soccer gear, charge 2 ahead of FIFA World Cup kickoff
Posted June 1, 2026 8:34 am.
Last Updated June 1, 2026 3:33 pm.
Toronto police have arrested two men and seized more than $3.5 million in counterfeit sports merchandise, dismantling what investigators describe as the largest fake‑soccer‑jersey operation ever uncovered in Canada.
The announcement comes as Toronto braces for massive crowds and soaring demand for team apparel during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with six matches set for Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) this month.
Deputy Chief Rob Johnson detailed the investigation Monday at police headquarters, calling the seizure a major win for consumer protection at a time when counterfeiters are aggressively targeting fans.
The probe began in May after the Toronto Police FIFA Planning Team Investigative Unit received a complaint from Lipkus Law LLP, a firm specializing in brand‑protection investigations and a member of the Canadian Anti‑Counterfeiting Network.
The complaint alleged that a Mississauga warehouse was stockpiling and distributing fraudulent soccer merchandise to retailers ahead of the tournament.
Warehouse raid uncovers 16,000 fake jerseys, flags and counterfeit trophies
Police executed four search warrants on May 26, targeting the warehouse, a vehicle, and on-site trailers. Inside, investigators found more than 16,000 counterfeit items, including jerseys, hats, flags, and other merchandise falsely bearing the marks of FIFA, Nike, Adidas, and Puma. Officers also seized two fake FIFA World Cup trophies.
The haul carries an estimated street value of $3,564,000.
Police arrested Ramy Jaber, 41, of Milton and Walid Sarhan, 62, of Mississauga. Charges include fraud over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
“This was a large‑scale operation designed to exploit fans and take advantage of their love for sports,” Johnson said, praising the rapid coordination between police units and brand‑protection partners. “It is a reminder to fans to be vigilant.”
Toronto is just days away from hosting its first World Cup match at Toronto Stadium. Toronto is one of 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Toronto Stadium is set to stage six matches during the tournament — five in the group stage and one Round of 32 knockout game.
The city’s first match arrives in mid‑June.
