A routine Facebook Marketplace transaction took a harrowing turn in Toronto, resulting in charges against a Brampton resident for drug trafficking and robbery. The incident unfolded on Friday evening in the vicinity of Midland Avenue and Danforth Road, where two parties convened for the sale of a cellphone listed on Facebook Marketplace.
According to the Toronto Police Service, the encounter took a dangerous turn when two individuals arrived in a grey 2017 Honda Civic purportedly to inspect the advertised phone. Instead of completing the transaction, one of the suspects seized the phone and retreated to the awaiting vehicle without tendering payment. Subsequently, one of the perpetrators brandished a firearm at the victim before absconding with the stolen device.
Law enforcement has since apprehended two suspects, both 19 years old, hailing from Toronto and Brampton, respectively. Jahziah Griffiths of Brampton faces a litany of charges, including robbery with an offensive weapon and possession of controlled substances for trafficking. Kevonte Murry, from Toronto, is similarly charged, with additional counts related to weapon possession and assault.
As the investigation continues, authorities caution the public and encourage safe exchanges for online transactions. They advise utilizing designated buy-and-sell exchange zones, such as those available at Peel Regional Police divisions, to mitigate risks associated with in-person transactions initiated online.
Given the severity of the incident, investigators believe there may be additional victims and urge anyone with pertinent information to contact the Toronto Police Service. Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers through various channels, including phone and online platforms.