Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying an adult male wanted in connection with an investigation into a missing youth, who has since been located.
In January 2026, an unknown person, claiming to be police from China, phoned the youth stating he was implicated in a money laundering investigation. The youth was instructed to contact the police in China to clear his name, avoid Canadian police and cease all communication with his family until the investigation was completed.
On February 2, the youth was directed to meet with an alleged police representative from China at a commercial plaza in the area of Woodbine Avenue and 16th Avenue. When he arrived, the youth met with an adult male who indicated he needed to be brought to a safe house in the City of Mississauga until the investigation was completed. The youth, under no duress, accompanied the male to the house that was later determined to be an Airbnb rental.
On February 4, he was contacted by an unknown person who stated he could go home as the investigation was completed. The youth left the house on his own and, once he arrived home, York Regional Police was notified. The youth was not injured.
It was learned through investigation that a ransom demand was made to the youth’s family, but was not paid.
Investigators are releasing photos of the adult male suspect for identification, whom investigators believe the youth met and traveled with to the house in Mississauga on February 2.
Description:
- Possibly goes by the name ‘Guan Yu WU’
- 18 to 25-years-old
- Last seen wearing a black hooded jacket and glasses
This scam appears to target young Chinese students who are newcomers to Canada. Although there are several variations of this scam, the suspects will use a variety of lies or threats to coerce the victim into co-operating with the demands and prevent them from contacting local police
York Regional Police is reminding citizens, especially students, to be aware of this scam. If a situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts. Do not be persuaded into providing personal information or payments by methods you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with. Always call companies or agencies back to verify their information.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7865, or email the Homicide Unit at homicide@yrp.ca. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.
Crime prevention is our shared responsibility: Find up-to-date crime data in York Region on the Community Safety Data Portal, or become a partner in community safety by signing up for the Security Camera Registry today.
Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-39952
February 12, 2026
