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Laval police say they’ve arrested five people and seized thousands of dollars in cash and stolen goods in busting a shoplifting ring.
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After being tipped off about a shoplifting scheme in electronics stores three months ago, Laval’s police service said Tuesday that investigators, working with Canada Border Services Agency employees, uncovered a cluster of similar cases.
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An analysis of the criminal network’s modus operandi showed that the suspects came from Romanian organized crime operating in Quebec and Ontario, Laval police said. Thieves targeted chain stores selling clothes, computer hardware and sports equipment, as well as luxury clothing. Thefts in Quebec total more than $70,000, police said.
Once several suspects were identified, investigators conducted a search in Laval’s Chomedey district that resulted in the seizure of $15,000 in cash and $40,000 worth of stolen materials that were destined for export to Romania.
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Investigators allege the suspects — of Romanian origin and established in Canada following a refugee claim — had been stealing electronics and luxury clothing for several months before leaving the country.
Laurentiu Baicu, 37, remains in custody following his arrest. Tiberius Léonard Miron, 40, was released with conditions following his court appearance. Claudia Macu, Vijai Alexe and Ionel Nitu, all between 32 and 42 years old, were released with conditions.
Two other men, 29-year-old Valter Ionut Alexe and 27-year-old Timotei Ion, are still wanted by the police. A warrant has been issued for their arrest.
The suspects face multiple counts of shoplifting over $5,000, as well as receiving stolen goods over $5,000. Some of them have also been taken into custody by the CBSA. They face imminent deportation to Romania, police said.
Investigators believe there are other thefts linked to the criminal cell.
Anyone who may have been a victim, or who may have information concerning this shoplifting ring, is asked to contact Laval police confidentially by calling 450-662-4636 or 911 and quoting file number LVL 230313-030.
