Laval police say they have arrested the heads of a car theft ring.

They say the two masterminds behind the ring are Vladimir Casimir and Calogiero Pizzuco, both 42, who appeared in court Friday to face various charges related to vehicle theft.

A third suspect, Gilbert Richer, was also arrested in connection with the stolen cars.

The three arrests came after about 20 police officers took part in five raids Thursday. They recovered eight vehicles valued at $500,000, some 30 devices used to make electronic keys, vehicle parts and $16,000 in cash.

Casimir and Pizzuco were known to the police and had a previous criminal record.

Laval police are asking for the public’s help in gathering details related to their case. They are urging anyone with information to call their confidential line at 450-662-INFO (4636) or calling 911 and quoting this dossier: LVL 170509 010.