York Regional Police say two people are facing charges after investigators seized a loaded firearm and cash during a search warrant in Vaughan tied to an ongoing organized crime and extortion probe.

The search, conducted on Sept. 23, was in connection with a lengthy investigation into unlawful gaming and betting activities.

Police allege that between January 2024 and September 2025, a suspect worked with an organized crime group that operated illegal gaming websites. Victims were allowed to place bets on credit, but when they lost, they were forced to settle debts in cash — sometimes in inflated amounts. Investigators say threats and violence were used to intimidate victims into paying.

As a result, Umberto (Rob) Rupolo, 37, of Vaughan, has been charged with kidnapping, four counts of e

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