The Edmonton Police Service Targeted Response to Auto-theft Prevention (TRAP) teams have laid several charges in connection to what it calls a “sophisticated series of thefts” targeting Lexus and Toyota vehicles.
According to EPS, more than 20 high-end Lexus and Toyota trucks and SUVs have been reported stolen in Edmonton in 2025.
To date, five of those vehicles have been recovered.
Investigators believe the suspects were using sophisticated electronic equipment to commit the thefts and then shipping the stolen vehicles overseas for financial gain.
On Wednesday April 16, three suspects were arrested after moving a stolen Lexus to a west end storage locker.
Yaya Oussalah, 18, of Montreal, is charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possessing electronic device to be used to commit theft of motor vehicle, and breach of release conditions.
Corry Bush, 21, of Montreal, is charged with three counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possessing electronic device to be used to commit theft of motor vehicle, personation, and obstructing a police officer.
Fahim Fils Aime, 21, of Montreal, is charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possessing electronic device to be used to commit theft of motor vehicle, fraud under $5,000, utter forged document, obstructing a police officer, personation, and four counts of breach of release conditions.
“We would like to remind the owners of newer Lexus and Toyota SUVs and newer Toyota trucks to take extra precautions securing their vehicles inside a garage when possible,” said Acting Staff Sergeant Ian Strom.
“We also recommend the use of an aftermarket ignition kill switch and a steering wheel club.”
The TRAP team is a specialized unit which specifically addresses city-wide theft of motor vehicles, thereby focusing on the reduction of crime and victimization, while increasing public safety.
Comments