Peel Crime Ring Busted After Swapping Stolen Baby Products for Drugs, Police Say
Peel police have uncovered a major organized crime operation involving the theft of baby products from retail stores — which were then exchanged on the streets for illegal drugs.
Investigators say the group operated in a coordinated manner, targeting big-box retailers across the Greater Toronto Area. Items like infant formula, diapers, and baby wipes were stolen in bulk and used as currency in drug trades.
The stolen goods were either bartered directly for fentanyl, cocaine, and other narcotics, or resold at discounted prices to fund drug purchases, according to police.
The criminal ring allegedly spanned multiple jurisdictions and involved more than one retail theft crew, all funneling products through a centralized network.
Several suspects have been arrested and are facing a range of charges including theft over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime, and drug trafficking.
Police say the investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are possible.
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Authorities are urging retailers to remain vigilant, as essential products like baby formula have become valuable commodities in the black market — especially for organized crime groups looking to avoid using traceable cash.
