Victoria (Rajeev Sharma): A joint-forces investigation led by the Niagara Regional Police Service has successfully intercepted dozens of stolen vehicles at a port in British Columbia, dealing a significant blow to an organized crime group based in Ontario. On Tuesday, officials provided a major update on “Project Road King,” revealing the recovery of 43 high-value vehicles worth an estimated $3.8 million just before they were shipped to international markets.
The operation, which began in 2024, has now resulted in more than 200 charges against 30 individuals. Investigators from the RCMP, CBSA, and police departments in Hamilton and Brantford utilized forensic analysis of electronic devices to trace the vehicles from Ontario to the B.C. port. This latest discovery brings the total value of recovered property and narcotics in this case to several million dollars.
Three suspects have been taken into custody following this latest development. Keir McColl, 39, of Ancaster; Tudor Sopterian, 32, of Hamilton; and Dejan Zlojo, 43, of Etobicoke, face numerous charges, including conspiracy to traffic property obtained by crime. McColl and Sopterian, who were previously arrested during the initial phase of the project, face additional charges related to fentanyl production and the use of threats of violence. An arrest warrant has also been issued for 58-year-old Nikola Scepanovic of Burlington.+1
The investigation originally sparked in August 2024 following a tip from Kingston police regarding a large-scale drug trafficking network. This led authorities to Curtis “Tiny” Gravelle of Welland, identified as a key figure in a criminal enterprise involved in both narcotics and auto theft. A massive raid in September 2025 previously saw the seizure of 12 kilograms of cocaine, multiple firearms, and 38 stolen vehicles.+2
Niagara Regional Police Chief Bill Fordy emphasized that while the initial takedown disrupted a major network, the investigation remains active. Police anticipate further charges as they continue to process evidence and hunt for remaining suspects. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the network or the whereabouts of Nikola Scepanovic to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
