Car theft ring uncovered in Halton as multiple arrests are made

A vehicle has been recovered and multiple arrests made after a series of car thefts lead to the discovery of an organized vehicle theft ring in Halton.

The first investigation involved an incident first reported by police on May 30. At around 2:30 a.m. officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle they describe as driving suspiciously.

Through a search conducted on the vehicle, tools commonly used for car thefts were recovered leading to the arrest of the three male occupants of the vehicle.

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Mohamed Ben Othemene, 23, of Quebec and Chiheb Eddine Aissoub, 18, of Quebec faces three charges in connection with the incident, including possession of break-in instruments and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

William Aubin-Blackburn, 20, of Quebec faces five charges, including failure to comply with probation order.

Ben Othemene and Aissoub have been released on Undertakings while Aubin-Blackburn continues to be held in custody pending a bail hearing

In a second investigation, the Halton Auto Theft Task Force identified an organized vehicle theft ring in the Halton and Greater Toronto Area.

Police say last Thursday suspects were seen stealing a 2022 Toyota Highlander and moving the car into a safe location until it was later recovered by members of the task force.

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Four individuals were arrested in connection with the latest incident including Ben Othemene and Aissoub who face charges in the May 30 theft.

The duo are now being held in custody awaiting a bail hearing.

Eighteen-year-old Yannick Bouchard faces three charges in Thursday’s theft and was released on Undertaking.

Investigators have advised residents on steps to reduce the chances of a car being stolen such as installing a GPS tracking device, home security cameras, and parking in a locked garage when possible.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Regional Auto Theft Task Force at 905-825-4777 ext. 3407.

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