Three suspects arrested in attempted robbery in Veld

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Police have arrested four suspects, while one remains at large, as part of an ongoing multi-jurisdictional bank robbery investigation dubbed Project Opal.

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On June 21, 2024, three suspects were arrested during an attempted robbery in Field, by the Ontario Provincial Police Tactics and Rescue Unit and the Aviation Unit, with support from OPP West Nipissing Major Crime and OPP Criminal Investigation Branch.

A fourth suspect was arrested in Vaughan on September 25, 2024.

A fifth suspect was charged and is still wanted. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked not to approach him and to contact police immediately.

Between December 8, 2022 and March 16, 2024, eight bank robberies occurred in areas policed ​​by the Ontario Provincial Police, Barrie Police, Belleville Police, Durham Regional Police, Niagara Regional Police and Regional Police of York.

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Although each police agency investigated their respective incidents, in August 2023 the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch was brought in to coordinate the investigation into the suspects.

The police identified similar characteristics in the robberies, which pointed to one perpetrator group.

“The robberies involved two or three individuals who entered the banks before they closed,” OPP said.

“They wore different masks and clothing at each event. At least one gun was displayed in all robberies, but no injuries were reported. Bank employees were tied up in the last six robberies. Investigators have determined that the group of suspects is responsible for more than $2 million in reported losses at eight banks. The money has not yet been recovered.”

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OPP Deputy Commissioner Marty Kearns said Project Opal required extensive coordination between multiple police forces to identify and arrest the suspects before they could target another bank.

“Through their tireless work, they were able to ensure that no other victim had to endure the fear and trauma of such an ordeal. I extend my gratitude to our Project Opal members for their exceptional work and continued commitment to public safety.”

Although charges have been laid, the investigation continues and police urge anyone with information to contact local police, the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800- 222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

The investigation included support from the OPP Gray Bruce Detachment, Center of Forensic Services and Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Center of Canada.

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