July 9, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Mississauga, ON – Peel Regional Police have arrested four individuals in connection with a series of violent robberies in Brampton that specifically targeted South Asian and 2SLGBTQ+ community members. The arrests follow an extensive investigation by the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau into incidents that occurred between April and May of this year.
Police say the suspects used social media platforms to lure victims into in-person meetings under false pretenses. Once the meetings took place, victims were allegedly robbed, with some reporting that a firearm was used during the encounters.
Two suspects were initially arrested on May 31. As the investigation progressed, police identified a total of six individuals believed to be involved in the scheme. On July 4, investigators executed multiple search warrants across Peel Region, leading to the arrests of 18-year-old Hardil Singh Mehrok of Brampton, along with two male youths, aged 16 and 17. All three face multiple charges including two counts of kidnapping and three counts of robbery. They remain in custody pending a bail hearing.
Due to provisions under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the identities of the two young offenders cannot be released.
An arrest warrant has also been issued for 20-year-old Preetpal Kooner of Mississauga, who is facing the same charges.
Police believe additional victims may exist but have not yet come forward, potentially due to fear or concerns about their privacy. Investigators are working closely with the Crown Attorney’s Office to explore the possibility of laying hate-motivated charges.
Peel Regional Police are urging community members to exercise caution when arranging online meetups. Safety tips include meeting in public locations, informing someone of your plans, verifying identities beforehand, and trusting your instincts.
A media scrum regarding the case will be held today at 2:00 p.m. at Peel Regional Police Headquarters, 7150 Mississauga Road.
Full media release and pictures of the accused can be found here: Peel Regional Police News Release
Anyone with information is asked to contact the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 2133, or provide anonymous tips through Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or peelcrimestoppers.ca.
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