Two men from Brampton, Anuj Kumar, 25, and Simarpreet Singh, 29, have been charged in connection with a large-scale theft operation involving nearly $300,000 worth of stolen alcohol from LCBO stores across the Peel region. Facing a total of 35 charges, including theft, possession of stolen property, and drug-related offenses, the suspects were apprehended following an extensive investigation by Peel Regional Police into a coordinated retail crime spree spanning much of 2025. Both men remain in custody pending bail hearings as authorities continue to investigate the case and warn of potential further charges.
Details of the Theft Operation
The investigation revealed that Anuj Kumar and Simarpreet Singh orchestrated a series of thefts targeting LCBO stores throughout the Peel region. Over the course of several months in 2025, the two men allegedly stole nearly $300,000 worth of alcohol, exploiting vulnerabilities in store security systems. The stolen items included a wide range of alcoholic beverages, primarily high-value spirits, which the suspects were purportedly reselling through illicit channels.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The defendants face a total of 35 charges comprising various offenses such as theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, and several drug-related charges linked to the case. Peel Regional Police confirmed that these charges stem from both direct theft incidents and the recovery of substances believed to be connected to the suspects. Both individuals have been taken into custody and remain detained at this time. Their bail hearings are scheduled in the forthcoming weeks, during which legal representatives will address the allegations.
Investigation and Police Response
Peel Regional Police conducted an extensive and multifaceted investigation, utilizing surveillance footage, store records, and community tips to track and apprehend the suspects. The joint efforts between retail investigators and law enforcement focused on uncovering the organized nature of the crime spree, identifying patterns, and preventing further losses. Police officials have issued warnings to other retailers in the region to heighten vigilance and implement additional security measures.
Community Impact and Ongoing Developments
The operation not only resulted in significant financial losses for the LCBO stores but also raised broader concerns regarding organized retail crime within the Peel region. Authorities continue to explore connections between this incident and other criminal activities, suggesting the possibility of more charges in the near future. Residents and business owners are encouraged to report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement to combat such coordinated theft operations effectively.
The arrests of Anuj Kumar and Simarpreet Singh mark a significant development in addressing organized retail crime in the Peel region. With nearly $300,000 worth of alcohol stolen and 35 charges laid, this case highlights the challenges faced by retailers and law enforcement in preventing large-scale theft operations. As the investigation continues and bail hearings approach, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to curb similar criminal activities and safeguard the community. Ongoing cooperation between law enforcement, businesses, and residents will be essential in mitigating the impact of such crimes and ensuring public safety moving forward.
