Canada- Multiple pickpocket thefts in downtown core prompt police to issue a public safety alert, Toronto, 2024 *Suspect pic*

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Feb 1 2024

Multiple pickpocket thefts in downtown core prompt police to issue a public safety alert

Police received numerous reports of stolen wallets and purses from restaurants and food courts in mid-January.

www.thestar.com

''A spree of pickpocket thefts in the downtown core has Toronto police advising people to stay aware of their surroundings.
Police said they received multiple reports between Jan. 16–20 of people's wallets being stolen while they were at restaurants or food courts in the city.
According to police, a woman usually wearing a loose shawl would stand or sit beside the victim's purse or jacket hanging over the back of a chair. Using the shawl for cover, the woman would steal the wallet from the purse or jacket and then flee the area''

''Stolen credit and debit cards have been used to purchase gift cards and electronics in the reported instances, police said.''

Public Safety Alert, Man and Woman wanted in Pickpocket Style Theft Investigation, Downtown core area, Images released

www.tps.ca

Unit: 52 Division
Case #: 2024-121430

• the female suspect, usually wearing a loose shawl, would stand or sit beside the victim’s purse or jacket hanging over the back of a chair
• the female suspect would use the shawl for cover, proceed to steal the victim’s wallet, and then exit the area
• stolen credit and debit cards are then used to purchase gift cards and electronics

The suspects are described as:

• Suspect #1: female, short stature, heavy build, wearing a loose shawl with beige and grey stripes, beige wool hat, and dark pants
• Suspect #2: male, 6'0", medium build, wearing a black jacket, black pants, black hat, and a backpack