A 21-year-old Brampton man is in custody in connection with a fraud investigation targeting members of the South Asian community.
Police in Peel Region say they began an investigation in the summer of 2025 following allegations that individuals with temporary immigration status were recruited by a man in order to commit fraud against financial institutions and automotive dealerships in the region.
Investigators say the scheme involved using others to obtain credit products, such as high-value auto loans, with no intent to repay them.
The funds and vehicles obtained were allegedly intended for unauthorized use, resale or export, according to police.
On March 9, police arrested Udayveer Dhillon and charged him with attempting to commit a criminal offence.
Investment fraud targets the human desire for financial growth by promising high returns with “low to no risk.”
- Ponzi Schemes: Named after Charles Ponzi, these schemes pay “returns” to earlier investors using the capital brought in by newer investors. There is no actual underlying business; the system collapses when new recruitment slows down.
- Pyramid Schemes: Similar to Ponzi schemes, but participants are usually required to sell a product or service. The primary “profit” comes from the recruitment fees of new members rather than actual product sales.
- Pump and Dump: Fraudsters spread false, positive rumors about a cheap stock (the “pump”) to drive up the price. Once the price peaks, they sell their shares (the “dump”), leaving other investors with worthless stock.