Waterloo regional police have arrested three teenage boys in connection to a string of violent robberies throughout the Region of Waterloo that involved guns and knives.
Police have tied the boys to 15 armed robberies, primarily targeting pharmacies, banks and cell phone retailers, in Waterloo region and Oxford County since October 2021.
On May 26, police arrested a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, both from Kitchener.
Another 16-year-old from Kitchener was arrested on June 4.
A media release from police said a loaded handgun, ammunition, over $100,000 worth of stolen cell phones, and four stolen vehicles valued at $100,000 have been recovered.
"I don't want to get into the details of the investigation by our robbery team, but really, a tremendous effort with a complex investigation for that team, to identify and arrest these three subjects," Const. Melissa Quarrie told CTV News.
All three teens are facing more than 30 criminal charges between them.
"Definitely concerning when we see any sort of violent crime in our community, especially when it's being perpetrated by youth," added Const. Quarrie.
The first 16-year-old boy has been charged with robbery with a firearm, two counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000, eight counts of disguise with intent, five counts of robbery with a weapon, two counts of robbery and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
The 17-year-old boy has been charged with robbery with a firearm, two counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000, disguise with intent, two counts of robbery with a weapon, robbery and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
The second 16-year-old boy has been charged with robbery with a firearm, two counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000, disguise with intent, unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, disguise with intent, pointing a firearm and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and they expect to lay further charges.
