Ottawa Police Service (OPS) issued a warning about international crime groups. Authorities report that these groups operate across multiple provinces, including Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Investigations link recent high-value robberies in Ottawa and other major cities, such as Montreal, the GTA, Vancouver, and Calgary, to these organized groups.
How they operate
These gangs act in small, mobile units. They seek empty homes, especially properties with backyards facing green spaces, parks, or quiet streets.
They often enter through back windows, second-floor windows, glass pantry doors, or patio doors. Sometimes, they bring ladders, foldable steps, or even use patio furniture to access homes.
Members work quickly and efficiently. They divide tasks among themselves. Typical targets include jewelry, luxury watches, cash, designer items, and small safes — valuable and easy to carry abroad.
Targeted locations
Most break-ins occur in homes with hidden back areas, near parks, trails, green zones, or golf courses.
These crimes happen day or night. Criminals usually park their cars far from the house sometimes over a kilometer away and walk to avoid linking the vehicle to the burglary.
At least two suspects usually participate. They wear dark clothing, carry backpacks, and often cover their faces with hoods or masks.
Police safety tips
OPS recommends simple, effective precautions:
- Lock all doors and windows, even when leaving briefly.
- Install monitored alarms, cameras, or video doorbells, and register equipment in local programs.
- Use motion-sensor lights around your property.
- Avoid posting travel plans on social media.
- Ask trusted neighbors to watch your home while away.
- Report suspicious people or vehicles immediately.
Police response
OPS monitors these groups closely. Investigations have already led to arrests linked to these crimes.
The police urge the public to report suspicious activity and share surveillance footage with community programs. Active community involvement increases the chance of stopping new thefts.
The police alert highlights a serious issue: foreign crime groups are using Canada for quick, coordinated burglaries. Protecting homes requires awareness, prevention, and neighbor collaboration. Following police tips and staying vigilant helps make homes and neighborhoods safer.
