Police arrest 24-year-old in string of knife-point robberies across Toronto

In this file photo Police tape is shown in Toronto, Tuesday, May 2, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graeme Roy

Toronto police have charged a 24-year-old Toronto man in connection with a series of knife-point robberies across the city late last year.

Officials say the incidents took place between late December 2025, and early January of this year, primarily along Steeles Avenue, involving stores in both the east and west ends of the city.

Investigators allege the suspect repeatedly entered stores wearing a mask, approached the checkout counter, indicated he had a knife or produced one, and demanded cash before fleeing. In one case, police say the suspect fled empty-handed.

This is when and where the incidents occurred according to Toronto police:

• Steeles Avenue East and Leslie Street (Dec. 23 and Jan. 7)
• Steeles Avenue East and Pharmacy Avenue (Dec. 27)
• Steeles Avenue West and Weston Road (Dec. 28)
• Steeles Avenue West and Bathurst Street (Dec. 30)

Earlier this week, members of the Hold Up Squad, with assistance from multiple divisions, located and arrested the suspect.

Police say a search warrant was executed, and officers recovered the knife and clothing allegedly used during the robberies.

As a result of the investigation, 24-year-old Mohamed Ismail of Toronto is charged with:

• Five counts of robbery with offensive weapon
• Four counts of disguise with intent
• Four counts of weapons dangerous
• Assault with a weapon

None of the charges have been tested in court but police say he was scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on Jan. 16.

Anyone with additional information is asked to come forward.