Detective Jeff Chemello Provides Update on Project Stratus: A Major Robbery Investigation
In a recent press briefing, Detective Jeff Chemello shed light on Project Stratus, which has unveiled a significant criminal network responsible for a spate of armed carjackings targeting high-end vehicles across Peel Region and the Greater Toronto Area. This extensive investigation, led by the Central Robbery Bureau, has not only revealed the violent nature of these crimes but also uncovered a sophisticated operation dedicated to the movement, re-vinning, and preparation of stolen vehicles for resale both domestically and internationally.
The series of armed robberies spanned from January 18 to February 1, 2026, occurring primarily in Mississauga and Toronto. Victims were approached in parking lots by armed suspects demanding their vehicle keys. Indicative of a well-coordinated effort, the criminals utilized a combination of vehicles during these crimes—a stolen white pickup truck in the initial robberies and a stolen Honda Civic in the subsequent incidents. The audacity of the culprits was highlighted in the final robbery attempt on February 1, where the targeted vehicle’s security features deterred the thieves, who subsequently fled in the same Honda Civic.
As the investigation unfolded, police officers identified critical storage locations used for concealing stolen vehicles. Among these locations was an auto body shop in Toronto, where stolen assets were prepared for shipping overseas. The breakthrough occurred on January 30 when law enforcement executed a search warrant at this shop. They recovered a stolen Mercedes, taken on January 18, which had already been re-vinned and was set for export to Ghana the very next day.
The collaborative efforts of various law enforcement units played a pivotal role throughout this investigation. On January 31, Samson Igbason was apprehended while driving the stolen white pickup truck. This marked a turning point, leading to further discoveries. On February 9, authorities intercepted a shipping container linked to the auto shop, unveiling a fraudulently financed Toyota RAV4.
The investigation saw a series of arrests in the days that followed. On February 10, Steven Walsum Garricks and Bradley Walsum were taken into custody in Brampton. The officers seized a stolen Honda CRV and a replica Glock firearm during this operation. Further investigations led to multiple search warrants being executed at various storage lockers, where significant evidence connecting the accused to the robberies was recovered, including the stolen Mercedes Maybach.
The operations continued as Matthew Heimers was arrested on February 27 in Listowel, with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Authorities seized another replica firearm in addition to offense-related property during this arrest. Finally, on March 3, Detective Chemello announced the capture of Rayner Fernando and Steven Giselle Lopez at Pearson International Airport as they were allegedly preparing to journey to Ghana.
The breadth of Project Stratus is significant. Investigators recovered eight stolen high-end vehicles, collectively valued at approximately $800,000. Six individuals now face charges totaling 30, including serious offenses related to armed robbery and possession of stolen property. The success of this operation highlights the diligent work conducted by the Central Robbery Bureau and the vital collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
Detective Chemello praised his colleagues for their hard work and dedication, which were instrumental in the successful execution of Project Stratus. The cooperation between various agencies was essential, reflecting the increasing importance of teamwork in tackling organized crime.
As law enforcement continues to combat such illicit activities, the findings from Project Stratus reinforce the need for heightened vigilance and community awareness regarding the dangers posed by organized crime networks. Through ongoing efforts, the authorities are committed to ensuring that such criminal enterprises face justice and that the communities they target remain safe.
