Published on: February 3, 2026, at 12:46 PM.

Updated on: February 3, 2026, at 12:46 PM.

• Nine arrested following investigation into illicit gambling operation in Toronto
• Confiscation of gaming machines, cash, and narcotics
• Investigation commenced in 2024

York Regional Police have apprehended nine suspects after a comprehensive two-year probe into illegal gambling activities in Toronto and Vaughan, a neighboring city to the north.

During the investigation named Project Scala, which began in 2024, officials confiscated video gaming devices, illegal tobacco and alcohol, narcotics, and assets considered as “proceeds of crime.” This inquiry was conducted by the York Regional Police’s Traditional Organized Crime Task Force in collaboration with the South Simcoe Police Service.

Seizure of Gaming Machines

The detained individuals were reportedly involved in collecting funds from illicit gaming venues. Search warrants were executed on January 22 at a residence and gambling house in Vaughan, alongside two residences and two gambling establishments in Toronto.

Police also searched a business site and a storage unit in Toronto, as well as two vehicles.

Cash and Cryptocurrency

The financial assets obtained from the operation included a substantial amount of cash, silver bars, coins, and a cryptocurrency wallet.

Those arrested include Alessaandro Ortolano, 56, from Vaughan; Giorgio Campagna, 64, from Toronto; Giuseppe Minaci, 61, from Toronto; Giuseppe Ferraro, 63, from Cambridge; Caprice Sluman, 61, from Vaughan; Salvatore Blandad, 50, from Tottenham; Paul Lessis, 47, from Innisfil; Gaspere Malfara, 70, from Vaughan; and James Sze, 27, from Toronto. Their charges range from Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 to Operating Common Betting Houses and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

York police encourage anyone with information to reach out at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6970. Anonymous reports can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or through their website.