Calgary tow operator charged in alleged predatory towing scheme
Posted Jan 21, 2026 6:15 pm.
A months-long investigation into a suspected predatory towing scheme has led to charges against a Calgary man linked to two local towing companies.
Police began investigating in December 2025 after two insurance companies reported troubling interactions with Southway Towing and Country Side Towing, both owned by the same individual.
According to investigators, the insurers repeatedly attempted to contact the operators to arrange payment and to retrieve nine vehicles stored on the companies’ property. Instead, they encountered silence, long delays, and invoices that allegedly included inflated fees for services never performed.
Detectives determined the pattern aligned with predatory towing behaviour and launched an investigation. Officers executed a search warrant at a home near 80 Avenue NE and 52 Street NE, where nine vehicles were seized.
Following the investigation, Hassan Ashraf ZAHRAN, 25, of Calgary, has been charged with nine counts of fraud over $5,000, one count of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, one count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, and one count of mischief under $5,000.
Zahran is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
Police are encouraging anyone with information about this case or similar incidents to call 403‑266‑1234. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
