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- calendar_today October 14, 2026
Third Military Member Arrested in Kidnapping Probe
A third member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has been charged in a kidnapping investigation, Toronto police announced Wednesday. This latest arrest, alongside four civilians, follows the earlier arrest of two members of Canada’s military reserves in connection with the same case.
Details of the Alleged Kidnapping and Criminal Activity
According to Joe Matthews, chief superintendent with Toronto Police Services, the investigation began after a reported kidnapping incident on July 25. Police allege the victim was handcuffed and held at gunpoint in a car. The suspects are accused of assaulting the victim while attempting to gain access to cryptocurrency assets.
“This investigation highlights an evolving trend that we are seeing in serious criminal activity. Criminals continue to adapt their methods and identify new opportunities for financial gain,” said Matthews at a news conference.
Identification of the Accused and Military Concerns
Jack Miley, a 24-year-old reserve member of the CAF from Toronto, was arrested on September 24. He faces seven charges, including kidnapping for ransom with a firearm, forcible confinement, and multiple firearm charges. Police clarified that Miley is from a different regiment than two previously arrested reservists.
Earlier in the investigation, Talarambage Fernando, 22, and James Moreau, 29—both bombardiers and reserve members of the 7 Toronto Regiment—were arrested on August 11. Fernando and Moreau face a combined total of 49 charges related to kidnapping for ransom, forcible confinement, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, use of a firearm during the commission of an indictable offence, and mischief interfering with property.
Additional Civilians Charged and Public Safety Concerns
Police report that four civilians have also been arrested and charged in connection with the case. The involvement of military personnel is particularly concerning, said Matthews, due to their advanced training and access to firearms. "These are highly trained individuals with access to firearms and that creates a lot of concern for not only our community, but our officers," he noted.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw emphasized the principle of equality under the law, stating, "Whether you are a member of the military or a member of police service or a public official, no one is above the law." He declined to provide additional details as the matter is now before the courts but addressed the importance of upholding public trust and public safety.
Seized Firearms, Ammunition, and Drugs
The investigation led to the recovery of at least four firearms and 2,700 rounds of ammunition, about half of which police allege were blanks stolen from the military. Authorities also seized significant quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances, adding a drug seizure element to the criminal investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Military Response
Matthews stated that it remains unclear how all seven accused individuals knew each other, and this information is being explored as part of the ongoing probe. Police have found no evidence at this stage to suggest links to larger organized crime groups but are continuing to analyze cellphones recovered during the operation.
Following the arrests of Fernando and Moreau, they were removed from their duties and their access to military facilities and bases was restricted, according to the Department of National Defence. CBC requested comment from the department regarding Miley’s arrest.
Source: cbc.ca.
