What started as a routine check at a Petro‑Canada on Highway 35/115 in Clarington turned into a fraud investigation, after staff say they found hidden card‑skimming devices attached to fuel pumps and called police. Employees report they uncovered the tampering during an inspection, then later helped officers identify two suspects on surveillance video. Investigators say the pair were arrested a short distance from the station after returning to allegedly retrieve the devices.
According to Durham Radio News, officers responded to a fraud call at the Petro‑Canada at 8262 Highway 35/115 at about 7:25 a.m. A search of a vehicle turned up multiple electronic skimming devices and controlled substances, and police say employees assisted by pointing investigators to key video footage. Both men were held for a bail hearing while the Financial Crimes Unit continued its probe.
Investigation details and evidence
Surveillance footage and a sharp‑eyed employee inspection were central to uncovering the scheme, and investigators say the suspects circled back later the same day to recover the planted hardware. Card‑skimming devices can be attached to pumps in seconds and are used to copy magnetic‑stripe data and PINs, which can then be used for fraudulent transactions.
A federal risk assessment notes reported fraud losses reached roughly CAD $638 million in 2024, a figure that has put payment‑card crime squarely on law‑enforcement radar; see the Government of Canada report for more context.
Names and charges
Durham Radio News identifies the accused as 43‑year‑old Arthick Antonito of Pickering and 36‑year‑old Kajatheepan Karunakaran of Toronto. Antonito is charged with fraud over $5,000, dealing with a device for unauthorized use of credit‑card data, possession of credit cards obtained by fraud and possession of a Schedule I substance. Karunakaran faces fraud and device charges, along with two counts of failing to comply with a probation order.
Police have asked anyone with dash‑cam, phone or surveillance footage from the area to get in touch with investigators.
How to protect yourself at the pump
Security advisers recommend using tap or paying inside when possible, shielding the keypad while entering a PIN and giving card readers a quick look for loose, misaligned or altered parts before inserting a card. It also helps to turn on transaction alerts and review statements frequently so you can spot suspicious charges quickly. If you think your card may have been compromised, contact your bank immediately and report the incident. For practical guidance on spotting skimmers and next steps, see Forbes Advisor Canada.
What happens next
Both men were held for bail and the Financial Crimes Unit has said it will continue the investigation. Anyone with information or relevant footage is asked to contact D/Cst. Kane of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1‑888‑579‑1520 ext. 5371 or Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477. The charges are allegations, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
