November 4, 2025: The Region of Peel: Police are warning residents about a concerning rise in distraction thefts aimed at elderly members of the Brampton community. According to investigators from the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau, multiple reports have surfaced involving suspects who approach elderly victims walking alone. The suspects often initiate friendly conversations, asking victims to come closer to their vehicles. In several cases, language barriers prevent victims from fully understanding the interaction.
Once the victim approaches, the suspects either snatch or discreetly exchange the victim’s jewellery before fleeing. Some incidents involve a female suspect engaging the victim in conversation while a male accomplice exits a nearby vehicle to forcibly remove jewellery items. Police are urging residents—particularly seniors—to remain vigilant when approached by unknown individuals, especially those inside vehicles. Community members are encouraged to immediately report any suspicious activity, persons, or vehicles attempting to interact with elderly pedestrians.
Anyone with information, security footage, or dashcam recordings related to these thefts is asked to contact the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 2133. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca. In case of emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.