Full Breakdown
Three Canadian Armed Forces Members Charged in Toronto Kidnapping and Ammunition-Theft Probe
By Drooid · · How we work
The Kidnapping Investigation Unfolds
Police opened a criminal investigation on July 25 after officers responded to an abduction near Finch Avenue East and Bayview Avenue. The victim was approached as he reached his vehicle, taken at gunpoint, handcuffed, and assaulted while the suspects tried to access his cryptocurrency holdings. He was later released and warned not to contact police. The inquiry expanded, leading to the arrest of seven individuals—four civilians and three reserve members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). All face charges that include kidnapping for ransom, forcible confinement, and firearm-related offences.
Timeline
- July 25 – Investigation launched.
- Within 24 hours – Police identified a suspect vehicle and arrested two individuals.
- August – Two bombardiers from the 7 Toronto Regiment were taken into custody.
- September – A third reserve member, 24, was arrested.
- End of September – Seven suspects arrested and 82 charges laid.
Data & Statistics
- Charges: 82 total; all but one include kidnapping for ransom.
- Ammunition: Alleged theft of 2,500–2,700 rounds from CAF stores.
- Firearms & Equipment: Seized items include four firearms, a shotgun, three 3D-printed 9 mm handguns, two silencers, over-capacity magazines, and storage boxes.
- Drugs: Large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine recovered.
- Individual counts: Talarambage Sachintha Fernando faces 20 gun-related offences; James Moreau is the only military member charged with two counts of possession for trafficking.
Official Statements & Responses
A Department of National Defence spokesperson said the two bombardiers were removed from duties and had their access to military facilities restricted after their August arrests, and that the third reserve member’s rank was not disclosed. All three remain CAF members pending an administrative review. Police indicated the case is now before the courts, limiting further comment.
Why It Matters
The involvement of reserve CAF members in a kidnapping, firearms theft, and drug-seizure operation raises concerns about the security of military-issued equipment and the vetting of personnel with access to weapons. Law-enforcement officials highlighted the risk to public safety and to officers who may encounter similarly trained offenders.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Ammunition totals: CBC reported 2,700 rounds, while Global News cited roughly 2,500 rounds. Both figures are presented as alleged thefts from the military.
- Organised-crime links: Investigators have found no clear connection to larger organised-crime networks, but cell-phone analysis remains ongoing, leaving the full scope of the suspects’ associations uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These are highly trained individuals with access to firearms and that creates a lot of concern for not only our community but our officers.” — Joe Matthews, chief superintendent, Toronto Police Services
- “Whether you are a member of the military or a member of police service or a public official, no one is above the law,” — Myron Demkiw, police chief