TL;DR: NOW Toronto reported on February 13, 2026 that Toronto police charged Charles Azi, 36, and Patricia Azi, 42, both of Mississauga, in “Project Mismatch”, an alleged romance scam on dating apps. A fake “GTA businessman” called “Hronek Radko” running “Ocean Global Auto” asked victims in Toronto, B.C. and Texas for business loans. US police estimate about $250,000 lost.
What happened
According to NOW Toronto, Toronto police executed a search warrant on a vehicle and home in Mississauga on January 21 and later charged two people in an investigation called Project Mismatch. Police allege suspects used online dating apps to contact victims across Canada and the US, including in Toronto, B.C. and Texas. US police estimate victims lost roughly $250,000 and believe there are more victims. The accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The alias and the pitch
- The primary suspect allegedly used the name “Hronek Radko”, with a photo of an unknown person and fraudulent ID.
- The fake persona claimed to be a successful GTA businessman running Ocean Global Auto Ltd., also called Ocean Auto.
- After building trust, the suspect allegedly persuaded victims to lend large sums for supposed business expenses. Communication stopped once the money was sent.
The charges
Charles Azi, 36, is charged with Fraud Over $5,000 and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000. Patricia Azi, 42, is charged with Possession of Property Over $5,000. Both were scheduled to appear in court in March. The article does not say which accused used the alias. Anyone who sent money to Ocean Auto is asked to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-7300, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
Red flags police list
- Fast-moving online relationships that avoid in-person meetings.
- Claims of wealth followed by sudden financial crises.
- Requests for payment by wire transfer, bank draft, cryptocurrency or business accounts.
- Pressure through urgency, secrecy, guilt or threats.
Police stress the scams are highly organised frauds that rely on social engineering, “not about poor judgment”. Learn the red flags, see a similar Ontario case in Durham's $1 million case, and read the CAFC reporting guide. Run our free email exposure check to see what a fake profile could be built from.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much was lost?
US police estimate victims lost roughly $250,000 and believe there are more victims.
Who was charged?
Charles Azi, 36, and Patricia Azi, 42, both of Mississauga. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
What was the alias?
“Hronek Radko”, a supposed GTA businessman running Ocean Global Auto Ltd. The article does not say which accused used it.
What if I sent money to Ocean Auto?
Contact Toronto Police at 416-808-7300 and report to the CAFC.
Sources
- NOW Toronto: Toronto police charge two in alleged $250K romance scam ahead of Valentine's Day (Feb 13, 2026)
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)