Toronto police investigating after 2 alleged cellphone pickpockets caught at Rebel nightclub

A Toronto Police patch shown in Toronto on Aug. 5, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston

Toronto police are investigating after two people who allegedly stole multiple phones were caught at the Rebel nightclub earlier this week.

In a post on its social media pages, Rebel revealed that bouncers identified two people in possession of stolen phones hidden in an RFID (Radio-frequency identification) pouch and apprehended them around 1:30 a.m. on Monday.

“The pickpockets were turned over to Toronto Police 51 Division and arrested. The recovered phones are now with police as they work to return the devices to their rightful owners,” the club wrote.

Rebel noted that its staff members’ actions were part of a planned internal effort where they’d “spot, track, bait and stop” thieves.

Rebel ‘fed up’ with pickpockets

The nightclub said it is “fed up” with pickpocket incidents.

“Our team is trained to respond quickly to concerns, and we continuously review our procedures to help prevent incidents and protect our guests. This includes adding new systems designed to catch thieves, one of which proved effective last night,” it said.

“We encourage all guests to stay aware of their surroundings, keep personal belongings secure, and report any suspicious activity to our staff or security team immediately.”

In an email to CP24, Toronto police confirmed there is an investigation ongoing but were unable to provide more information, including whether the two people have been charged.

It is also unclear how the owners of the recovered phones will get them back.