Full Breakdown
Toronto kidnapping probe uncovers stolen military ammunition and drug cache
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Investigation
Police investigations began on July 25 after officers responded to a reported abduction in North York. A man was approached, handcuffed and assaulted as he reached his vehicle; he was later released with a warning not to contact police. Detectives linked the attack to the victim’s access to cryptocurrency assets, prompting a broader inquiry that quickly expanded beyond the kidnapping. Search warrants executed in the weeks that followed uncovered a shotgun, two 3-D-printed handguns, silencers, a crossbow, large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine, and more than 2,500 rounds of ammunition later identified as stolen from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Official Statements & Responses
Chief Superintendent Joe Matthews said the case “quickly unfolded” into a larger operation involving firearms and drugs. Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw warned that the involvement of trained reservists heightened community risk and posed challenges for responding officers. The Department of National Defence confirmed that three reservists—Talarambage Fernando (22), James Moreau (29) and Jack Miley (24)—are members of the 7th Toronto Regiment, have been removed from duties and are pending an administrative review. A DND spokesperson emphasized the need to strengthen verification and oversight of ammunition holdings and outlined upcoming steps to modernize inventory management.
Data & Statistics
- Seven individuals have been arrested; three are CAF reservists.
- The suspects face a total of 82 charges covering kidnapping for ransom, forcible confinement, unauthorized firearm possession and drug-related offences.
- Police seized about 2,500 rounds of ammunition, identified as CAF property, along with a shotgun, two 3-D-printed handguns, two silencers, a crossbow, and significant amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine.
- Initial arrests occurred on July 26, with five additional arrests made in August and September.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In this case, the victim was allegedly targeted because of his access to cryptocurrency assets.” — The Department
- “Canadians rightly expect the Canadian Armed Forces to manage ammunition and explosives safely, securely, and responsibly.” — spokesperson
- “What started as an abduction investigation quickly unfolded into a much larger operation,” — Chief Supt. Matthews
- “Criminals continue to adapt their methods and seek new opportunities for financial gain,” — Joe Matthews, chief
- “When you are dealing with people who have a degree of training as we do with members of the Canadian Armed Forces who are prepared to engage in what is alleged here, taking somebody off the street by force, that is incredibly concerning,” — Myron Demkiw, Toronto police chief