GTA-wide commercial cargo theft ring nailed

15 were busted following an investigation into an auto theft ring that stole loaded commercial vehicles and then sold the cargo. Project Big Rig began in March. Cops recovered 28 containers of stolen cargo valued at $6.99m. An additional 28 stolen tractors and trailers valued at $2.25m were recovered. Warrants were served on six GTA storage locations. “They were entering lots of the facilities through the fences,” say cops. “They would cut the fence, go in, steal a truck, and drive out through the fence.

Cargo was often stolen roadside in industrial or residential areas or at truck stops when left unattended by drivers needing a break. Cargo theft is a low risk and high reward crime. It has been rising exponentially over the past few years.