Project Octane: 407 ETR Fraud Scheme Uncovered and 10 Stolen Vehicles Recovered
Region of Peel – Investigators with the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau have arrested four individuals and recovered 10 stolen vehicles following an investigation into a vehicle registration fraud scheme linked to more than $100,000 in unpaid 407 ETR tolls.
Launched in May 2026, Project Octane targeted the suspected use of fraudulent documents at several Service Ontario locations by multiple individuals.
Working in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and 407 ETR, the investigation examined allegations involving vehicle registrations, licence plates, and the use of documents submitted in connection with transactions at Service Ontario.
Further investigation revealed the plates were registered to fictitious companies, enabling users to evade accountability while accumulating significant toll and parking fees, including more than $100,000 407 ETR dues.
As a result of the investigation, four individuals have been arrested and charged with the following offences:
Haroon Qayumzada, 31, of Caledon:
- Fraud Over $5,000
- Use of Forged Documents x3
Gajan Karunanithy, 35, of Brampton:
- Use of Forged Documents x2
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
Tariq Hameed, 53, of Milton:
- Use of Forged Documents
Ismail Ismail, 37, of Toronto:
- Use of Forged Documents
As part of the investigation, officers recovered 10 re-vinned vehicles that were confirmed stolen, with an estimated value of $750,000.
The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario (CISO) supported this investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators with the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 3313.
QUICK FACTS
- Investigators recovered 10 stolen re-vinned vehicles with an estimated value of $750,000.
- The scheme is linked to more than $100,000 in unpaid 407 ETR tolls.
- Since peaking in 2023, vehicle thefts across Peel Region have declined by more than 50 per cent.
- As of June 30, vehicle thefts in Peel Region were down 10 per cent compared to the same period in 2025.
QUOTES
"This investigation exposed a scheme designed to exploit public systems and shield suspects from accountability. The recovery of 10 stolen vehicles is a significant blow to those involved in auto crime and a clear example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships and focused enforcement. We will continue targeting the individuals who enable and profit from criminal activity in our communities."
— Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich, Peel Regional Police
SOCIAL MEDIA
MEDIA CONTACT
Media Relations Officer
Email: media.relations@peelpolice.ca
Phone: 905-453-2121, ext. 4027
N/R: 26-177
Inc: PR250328217
Peel Regional Police – A Safer Community Together
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(L-R) Haroon Qayumzada, Gajan Karunanithy, Tariq Hameed, Ismail Ismail)
