The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a series of distraction thefts that are taking place throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
If you have been a victim or seen any suspicious activity, do notify the police.
It is reported that a group of men and women are travelling around in a vehicle. In groups of three or more, they approach people and say they are looking for a hospital. They ask for directions, gas money or for the blessing of a loved one who is sick.
The group then place a piece of fake jewelry around the intended victim’s neck in gratitude, while at the same time, removing the person’s personal jewelry.
Usually, it is a woman who makes the initial contact, while the man waits in a vehicle nearby. As the conversation progresses, the woman becomes very hands-on and aggressive.
The women are described as having olive complexions and wearing head scarves. The have been targeting elderly women and use vehicles with both Ontario and Quebec license plates.
The public is asked to be aware of any suspicious vehicles or suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.