OTTAWA – CBC News reported Monday evening on two distinct developments: an ongoing investigation into a car theft ring with international connections, and rising food prices impacting Canadian consumers.

Stolen Vehicle Export Network

An investigation by CBC News revealed evidence of a network operating in Montreal allegedly exporting stolen vehicles overseas. According to the broadcast, Montreal has become a hub for exporters dealing in stolen cars. Investigators found that stolen vehicles were often located at car export businesses or warehouses before being shipped.

A police raid in July 2024 on a warehouse in Saint-Laurent, purportedly used for mattress storage, uncovered stolen cars being loaded onto shipping containers, according to police documents obtained by CBC News. The warehouse was allegedly the headquarters of an organized criminal group. Police investigators reportedly witnessed over 30 stolen vehicles loaded at the location.

Albert Chiyoyo, owner of Albert Logistique, was identified in business records as being linked to the warehouse. While he hasn’t been charged, police say the investigation into the network is ongoing. Chiyoyo currently operates a new mattress company, C&N Matla Express, with a listed address at a U-Haul storage center, but sources say the business operates from a different warehouse in Saint-Laurent where cars are loaded onto containers.

Freight forwarders interviewed by CBC News stated that Montreal is a haven for exporters shipping stolen vehicles, often offering high prices for shipments. Several companies were identified through inspection documents as being involved in shipping stolen cars, with some claiming to be used car dealers or involved in clothing shipments. CBC News is withholding the names of these companies to protect its sources, who feared reprisal.

A man whose car was allegedly stolen by the network expressed shock and a violation of his sense of safety. Prosecutors in Quebec indicated further updates on the investigation are expected in the coming months.

Rising Food Prices

The broadcast also reported on rising food prices in Canada, linked to the conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to the supply chain. Fuel costs have increased, driving up prices for imported produce, meat, and dairy.

Monther Zade, owner of a Winnipeg grocery store, stated that fuel surcharges from shippers and suppliers are being passed on to consumers. He cited a recent price increase on onions, from 75 cents to $1 for a two-pound bag. Trucking companies are facing a 40 percent increase in diesel prices since the start of the conflict, which is impacting the entire food supply chain.

Art Wu, a senior economist with BMO Capital Markets, stated that food inflation is expected to increase in the coming months. He noted that buying local, seasonal produce as the growing season begins could help mitigate the impact on grocery budgets.

Shoppers interviewed expressed concerns about the rising costs. One shopper stated they are being more cautious with purchases and focusing on meal planning.

Wu also indicated that gas prices may decrease with the recent ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, but are unlikely to return to pre-war levels in the short term. Gas prices in Quebec are even higher, exceeding $2 per liter in some areas.

Additionally, CBC News reported that Jasveen Sangha, who supplied Matthew Perry with the ketamine that led to his death, was sentenced to 15 years in jail by a judge in Los Angeles.