WINNIPEG, Man. - A six-month Winnipeg police investigation into the theft and resale of stolen tools has ended with three arrests and the seizure of $140,000 worth of stolen items, police say.
The Property Crime Unit’s fencing investigation identified an organized network responsible for the theft, trafficking and resale of stolen tools throughout Winnipeg, police said in the release, issued November 4, 2026. The work began after police noticed an increase in power tool thefts from home renovation stores across the city; stolen tools were sold to individuals who resold them online.
On October 27, 2026, police arrested a 27-year-old man in connection with the theft of $4,100 worth of tools and other merchandise from home renovation stores between September 4 and October 25, 2026. He is charged with six counts of theft under $5,000 and was released on an undertaking. Police did not name him.
On October 28, 2026, two more suspects, buyers who would fence the goods by reselling them on online buy-and-sell platforms, were arrested while conducting a transaction involving stolen property advertised online. A search warrant at a residence in a St. Vital neighbourhood seized $140,000 worth of stolen items and approximately $3,200 in cash.
Charges
Ruslan Mykula, 34, and Liubov Mykula, 61, are each charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, trafficking in property obtained by crime over $5,000, and possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000. Ruslan Mykula was detained in custody; Liubov Mykula was released on an undertaking. The charges are allegations and have not been proven in court.
Investigation continuing
Police said the investigation is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Property Crime Unit at 204-986-2426 or the Winnipeg Police Service Crime Tip Line at 204-986-6178.
Source: Winnipeg Police Service, Property crime investigation – resale of stolen tools, November 4, 2026.
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