June 15, 2025
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is making it clear: neither death threats nor escalating gang violence will derail his commitment to a safer city. As Peel Regional Police announce the results of a major organized crime takedown, Project Ghost, the mayor is doubling down on his calls for bold enforcement and stronger public safety action.
Project Ghost: Major Crime Ring Dismantled
Peel Regional Police today unveiled the results of Project Ghost, a year-long investigation into a violent organized crime network responsible for at least 16 armed home invasions, shootings, and luxury auto thefts across Peel and Halton Regions.
The operation resulted in:
• 13 arrests, including five youth
• 197 criminal charges
• Seizure of over $1.8 million in stolen property and narcotics
• Recovery of high-end vehicles and weapons used in the crimes
“These were terrifying attacks,” said Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich. “Families were woken up in the middle of the night at knifepoint. In one case, both spouses were stabbed. These criminals were violent, organized, and relentless.”
Milinovich added that the group used encrypted communications and targeted vulnerable youth to carry out their crimes, calling it “organized crime in its rawest form.”
Mayor Brown Targeted — But Not Backing Down
The police announcement came on the same day Mayor Patrick Brown revealed he had been the target of a credible death threat sent by email. The threat, which named both his wife and young son, led to a temporary police security detail.
But Brown isn’t backing down.
“This is not the first time I’ve received a death threat. It won’t be the last. And it will never change my approach,” he said.
In a video shared on social media, Brown said:
“I will not be intimidated. If anyone thinks threatening my family is going to deter me from standing up to crime, they’re very mistaken.”
Watch here →
Speaking Out on Organized Crime & International Gang Threats
Brown has been one of the most vocal municipal leaders in Canada on organized crime. In addition to backing Project Ghost and Peel’s police budget increase, he has condemned recent transnational threats reaching into Peel Region, including those reportedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a violent syndicate based in India now associated with extortion demands and public threats in the Greater Toronto Area.
“It’s unacceptable that criminal organizations operating from overseas believe they can intimidate residents, small business owners, and elected officials in Peel Region. Whether it’s a homegrown gang or international cartel, our message is the same: you are not welcome here.”
A Unified Response
Brown praised Peel Police for their “exemplary work” and renewed his commitment to providing the force with the tools and personnel needed to confront rising violence.
“We are out-resourcing and outsmarting organized crime. Project Ghost is just one example of the aggressive enforcement approach Peel residents expect — and deserve.”
The mayor confirmed he has resumed his full public schedule, with no changes following the threat.
Milinovich confirmed the threat remains under investigation, and that Peel Police “will not hesitate to act quickly when public officials or residents are threatened.”
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Key Facts
• Project Ghost: 1-year Peel Police investigation
• 197 charges laid
• $1.8M+ in property and drugs seized
• 13 suspects, including 5 youth, charged with home invasions, attempted murder, and auto theft
Mayor Brown and Peel Police are sending a clear message:
Organized crime — whether domestic or international — will not be tolerated in Brampton or Peel Region. Threats, extortion, and violent intimidation will be met with decisive, coordinated action. This is a city that stands united behind its residents, its law enforcement, and its leadership. Brampton is not backing down — and neither is its mayor.