Five Toronto-area men have been arrested by Guelph police as part of an investigation into commercial break and enters that saw hundreds of thousands of dollars in thefts from Guelph and several other jurisdictions.
Last December, police began an investigation into commercial break and enters involving nine convenience stores and one auto repair shop in Guelph. The culprits targeted large quantities of cigarettes and OLG lottery scratch tickets at the convenience stores. Two vehicles were also stolen from the auto repair shop which were subsequently used as transportation to and from additional break and enter locations.
Through investigation it was determined that a group of subjects from the Greater Toronto Area were working together and were responsible for the break and enters in Guelph. In February and March 2025, the Guelph Police Service identified the subjects as well as some key locations for evidence.
Police executed six search warrants throughout the GTA and arrested four males. A fifth suspect was already in custody on other matters. At the time police made arrests, some of the accused were in the process of purchasing balaclavas.
As a result of the arrests and subsequent search warrants, Guelph Police recovered approximately 6,500 packs of cigarettes valued at $100,000 and more than 800 OLG lottery scratch tickets believed to be stolen. Approximately $10,000 cash as well as ski masks and break-in tools were also seized.
The five men from Toronto and Brampton, aged 24 to 37, face dozens of charges including break and enter, possession of break-in instruments, disguise with intent, possession of stolen property over $5,000 and failure to comply with court-imposed orders.
Through coordination with other police services, police were able to connect this group of individuals to 10 break and enters in Waterloo Region and two in London.
The investigation is still ongoing. It is believed that these males will be facing further charges as officers continue to investigate the origins of the stolen property recovered.
“The successful conclusion of this investigation by our Break Enter and Auto Theft Unit demonstrates the value of strategic public safety investments in our community. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to address multi-jurisdictional crime as we seek to ensure the safety our citizens. Those who commit these crimes in our city can expect to be held accountable,” said Guelph police chief Gord Cobey.
