Nine people are facing charges after a two-year investigation into illegal gambling operations in Vaughan and Toronto led to the seizure of gaming machines, drugs, illicit tobacco and alcohol, and proceeds of crime.
York Regional Police say investigators with the Traditional Organized Crime Task Force (TOCTF) launched Project Scala in 2024, targeting illegal gaming houses operating in both cities. Working in collaboration with the South Simcoe Police Service, officers identified suspects allegedly responsible for collecting money from the illegal operations.
On Thursday, January 22nd, police executed search warrants at multiple locations, including a residence and gaming house in Vaughan, two residences and two gaming houses in Toronto, as well as a business, a storage locker, and two motor vehicles in Toronto.
As a result, investigators seized video gaming machines and accessories, illicit tobacco and alcohol, a large quantity of cash, a cryptocurrency wallet, silver bars and coins, two vehicles, and a quantity of controlled substances. View the full charge list here.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Major Projects Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6970. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.
