Ontario lottery officials say they’re being inundated with callers claiming ownership of an allegedly stolen $12.5-million jackpot.

Eighty-seven people called soon after police and Ontario Lottery and Gaming announced Wednesday that they’re searching for the “rightful” winner of the ticket.

Police accuse a Toronto-area convenience store employee and his two children of stealing the ticket seven years ago.

An OLG spokesman says they’re asking the callers detailed questions about their ticket purchasing habits.

Tony Bitonti says 20 cases claiming ownership of the ticket have met the criteria and have been forwarded to provincial police for further investigation.

Twenty-seven more cases have been ruled out.

OLG staff are still attempting to call back the remaining claimants and expect more to come.

The spokesman said staff normally take about four calls per day regarding big lottery claims.

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