Police warn of uptick in pickpocketing, thefts from vehicles downtown during the holidays

Shoppers are seen at Toronto Eaton Centre during Boxing Day in Toronto, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston

Toronto police are warning the public of an increase in pickpocketing and thefts from vehicles in the downtown core during the holidays.

Police say suspects are targeting victims and vehicles while they attend shopping centres and special events in the city’s downtown core.

The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of an increase in Pickpocket Thefts and Theft from Auto incidents occurring in and around the downtown core area during the holiday season.

“Items are being stolen from unsuspecting victims, while items are left unattended, or from vehicles with parcels/valuables that are visible to thieves,” police said.

The public should refrain from leaving belongings, such as cell phones, wallets, and parcels, in vehicles while shopping or attending events downtown, police said.

Items should be “secure and within sight” and members of the public should use “zipped bags, cross-body straps, and internal pockets” to reduce the risk of being pickpocketed.

“Avoid placing wallets or phones in back pockets,” police said.

“Do not leave parcels or shopping bags unattended, even momentarily. Store items in vehicle trunks before arriving at your destination and ensure all doors and windows are locked.”