Two Fil-Canadians wanted in Canada over AI-driven retail fraud

NEW YORK — Toronto police are searching for two Filipino-Canadians allegedly involved in a large-scale retail fraud scheme.

Authorities identified the suspects as Danibros Flores, 49, and Remfrance Jusi, 41, both facing multiple counts of organized retail fraud involving artificial intelligence and credential-harvesting techniques. Warrants have been issued for their arrest.

Police said that between September 2025 and February 2026, an organized group targeted retail locations across Toronto.

The suspects allegedly used AI-enabled tools, including smart glasses and mobile devices, along with distraction tactics to capture employee login credentials and passwords.

The stolen credentials were then used to access store systems and fraudulently load funds onto gift cards through self-checkout terminals.

Authorities have linked the scheme to 112 incidents, resulting in significant financial losses for several retailers.

Investigators identified seven suspects through surveillance footage and coordination with the Central Fraud Intake Office.

Five have been arrested: Jeffrey Gelera, 49; Ronald Herrera Reyes, 40; Paul Herron Paje, 44; Vince Villaluz, 26; and Nixcel Gamayon, 44. They are currently on probation.

The five have been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and unauthorized use of a computer system to commit an offense.

Flores and Jusi have also been charged but allegedly violated their release conditions and are now believed to be in hiding.

Toronto police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating the two suspects, who are under Canada-wide warrants and are included on the Toronto Police Service’s most wanted list.—MCG, GMA News