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Halton Police bust luxury vehicle fraud ring in “Project Luxe” operation
November 21, 2023 By Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Nov. 21, 2023, Milton, Ont. – In a major crackdown, members of the Halton Police Regional Fraud Unit launched an investigation in the summer of 2023 into a sophisticated group impersonating representatives of a legitimate luxury vehicle retailer. Operating across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and southern Ontario, the group successfully defrauded multiple dealerships, obtaining high-end vehicles through elaborate schemes.
Recognizing the need for a decisive response, the Regional Fraud Unit initiated “Project Luxe.” It took the provincial-level lead to dismantle the highly organized group. A comprehensive investigation unfolded, identifying group members and their connections to a broader distribution network.
The collaborative effort involved not only local authorities but also international cooperation, with assistance from Homeland Security, The New York and New Jersey Port Authority Police, the Toronto Police Service, OPP, and the FBI. Successful vehicle recoveries occurred throughout Ontario and the United States, preventing the export of many intercepted vehicles destined overseas.
The recovered vehicles, with an estimated total value exceeding $1.6 million, include prestigious models such as the 2023 Maybach GLS600 (valued at over $300,000), a 2020 Lamborghini Urus (also valued at over $300,000), a 2021 Ferrari F8 Spider (worth $600,000), a 2023 Porsche 911 Turbo (valued at more than $225,000), a 2017 Mercedes E400, and a 2021 Dodge Durango (both valued over $60,000 each).
In a decisive move in November 2023, search warrants were executed at various locations throughout the GTA, resulting in the seizure of crucial evidence linking the accused to the alleged offences. This included equipment used to replicate security features for various secure payment methods.
Enoch Johnson (40 years) of Mississauga faces charges of Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000; Ahmad Amiri (29 years) of Oakville is charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000; and Issac Osunde Iyamu (27 years) with no fixed address is charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000 (5 counts) and Fraud over $5000. The arrests send a strong message against fraudulent activities and underline the commitment of law enforcement to safeguarding the public from such criminal enterprises.
– Milton Reporter
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