Gatineau, Que. police arrest 2 in connection with dozens of distraction thefts

A Gatineau police vehicle is seen in this file image.

The Gatineau Police Service (SPVG) say two people were arrested in late February following an investigation into dozens of complaints of distraction thefts.

Police say the investigation began in November 2025 regarding cellphones being stolen during in-person interactions after setting up sales online.

“In these cases, the thieves took advantage of a moment of inattention to quickly make off with the stolen device, which was then being offered for sale,” Gatineau police said in a news release, translated from French.

Officers conducted an operation on Feb. 23 and arrested two people from Ottawa believed to be linked to at least 20 thefts. One suspect is 18 years old, and the other is a minor. Police say fraud- and theft-related charges have been laid.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Gatineau police say, to date, they have received more than 50 complaints regarding this type of theft.

Anyone who has been a victim of this type of crime is encouraged to go to one of the SPVG police stations or use their online police reporting service to file a complaint.

Citizens who witnessed these events, or who have relevant information, are also encouraged to contact the SPVG at 819-246-0222, or to provide information confidentially via the Info line at 819-243-4636, option 5.

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