Network of Dozens of Romanians Involved in 'Criminal Tourism' Dismantled in Canada; Over 40 Arrests and Hundreds of Charges

Canadian authorities have dismantled a criminal network comprised of dozens of Romanians suspected of engaging in "criminal tourism." The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) coordinated a large-scale operation, codenamed "Project Jetsetter," which targeted organized cross-border crime.

The investigation uncovered a range of organized criminal activities, including large-scale retail thefts, fraud related to vehicle purchases and financing, staged car accidents for insurance claims, distraction-based jewelry thefts, and the illegal export of goods and vehicles. Canadian police specifically highlighted a significant increase in jewelry thefts, where elderly victims are often approached under false pretenses in public spaces and have their valuables stolen.

As a result of the investigation, 46 individuals were arrested, and authorities are actively searching for an additional 164 people. The probe, spanning several years, has led to over 1,440 charges being laid, with investigations ongoing. "Project Jetsetter" focused on criminal groups allegedly traveling to Canada to commit profitable crimes, often in connection with international organized crime networks.

According to police reports, these activities were meticulously planned and coordinated with the primary goal of financial gain. The investigations, initiated in 2019, involved more than nine separate inquiries and over 5,000 hours of operational work. More than 200 incidents were documented in the Durham region alone, resulting in estimated financial losses exceeding 2.6 million Canadian dollars.

Authorities emphasize that this phenomenon represents a growing form of transnational organized crime that necessitates close international cooperation between law enforcement agencies. "Criminal tourism is a recent and borderless form of organized crime that affects the daily lives of Canadians and underscores the need for strong global partnerships. Our intelligence program works closely with our policing partners to make the necessary connections and enhance public safety," stated Mario Panizzon, Director General of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police National Intelligence Service.

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Criminal tourism is a recent and borderless form of organized crime that affects the daily lives of Canadians and underscores the need for strong global partnerships. Our intelligence program works closely with our policing partners to make the necessary connections and enhance public safety.