Police in Ontario, Quebec arrest 31 people in connection to auto thefts in 'Project Volcano'

Police in Ontario and Quebec arrested 31 suspects in a "major interprovincial operation" to address auto theft in Ontario. Ontario Provincial Police worked with the Sûreté du Québec and Montreal police as part of 'Project Volcano.'

Police in Ontario and Quebec arrested 31 suspects in the Montreal area this week, as part of a "major interprovincial operation" focusing on auto thefts across Ontario.

Ontario Provincial Police worked with the Sûreté du Québec and Montreal police as part of 'Project Volcano,' arresting individuals wanted in connection to auto thefts between March 2019 and March 2023.

"We are seeing a trend where individuals are offending in Ontario while residing in Quebec," OPP Deputy Commissioner Marty Kearns told reporters in Hawkesbury, Ont. on Friday.

"In all of the cases brought before you today, suspects were apprehended by the OPP. After charges were laid, the accused failed to appear for court purposes or violated their release conditions, resulting in warrants being issued for their arrests. 'Project Volcano' was an initiative to bring these such individuals before the courts."

Police say the OPP, Sûreté du Québec and Montreal police arrested 31 suspects between Tuesday and Thursday this week, while eight accused were arrested prior to takedown. Twelve of the outstanding suspects are currently detained in Quebec correctional facilities, according to police.

Many of the suspects are accused of additional offences under the Criminal Code, Cannabis Act, Highway Traffic Act and Youth Criminal Justice Act. Police say several individuals face "serious charges," including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and flight from peace officer.

"In some instances, stolen vehicles were operated by young people who did not possess a driver's license," the OPP said in a statement.