Two men are facing multiple serious charges following a kidnapping and extortion investigation in Ajax that began last fall, Durham Regional Police say.
According to investigators, the incident took place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, and involved a transportation service provider who had agreed to drive two individuals from Ajax to Montreal.
Police say the victim arranged to meet two males at a prearranged location in Ajax. However, upon arrival, the situation escalated. Investigators allege that three males were present at the scene and forcibly confined the victim inside another vehicle while making threats with a firearm.
During the Ajax kidnapping and extortion incident, the victim was allegedly driven to a bank machine and forced to withdraw cash for the suspects. After obtaining the money, the suspects released the victim. Police confirmed that although the incident involved threats with a firearm, the victim did not suffer any physical injuries.
The investigation remained ongoing for several months. On Saturday, February 14, 2026, members of the West Crime Team, assisted by Durham Regional Police’s Tactical Support Unit, executed search warrants at three residences in Toronto.
As a result of those warrants, two of the three suspects were located and arrested without incident.
Victor Antonio Nunez Ceja, 32, of Toronto, has been charged with kidnapping, extortion, robbery, pointing a firearm, and occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm.
Jose Emmanuel Gonzalez Villa, 32, also of Toronto, faces the same charges: kidnapping, extortion, robbery, pointing a firearm, and occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm.
Both men were held for bail hearings.
Police have not released further details about the third suspect, and the investigation into the Ajax kidnapping and extortion remains ongoing.
Kidnapping and extortion offences are considered among the most serious crimes under the Criminal Code of Canada, particularly when firearms are involved. Authorities say such incidents can have significant psychological impacts on victims, even when no physical injuries are sustained.
Durham Regional Police are asking anyone who may have cell phone video, dash cam footage, surveillance recordings or other information related to the October 25 incident to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in any footage from the area of the initial meeting location in Ajax.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Madhavan of the West Crime Team at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2563.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
Police remind the public that the allegations have not yet been proven in court.
