Organized pickpocket groups targeting shoppers at Toronto Premium Outlets: police

Halton police are searching for a suspect and have released video of a distraction-style pickpocket theft at Toronto Premium Outlets that was caught on camera.

Halton police are searching for three suspects in a string of pickpocket incidents targeting the Toronto Premium Outlets shopping centre, one of which was captured on video.

In footage from April 11, three suspects are seen working together in a coordinated distraction theft inside a clothing store at Toronto Premium Outlets, located off Highway 401 near Milton

The trio enters together and browse racks while watching the victim. One male suspect is then seen picking up a pair of track pants, stealing the victim’s phone from their pocket before using the pants to conceal the stolen device. Police say that another male positioned himself to block the view of the victim while a third suspect, a woman, acted as a lookout.

Police are still searching for all three individuals.

The authorities say the latest occurrence is part of a trend which has seen thefts “being committed by organized groups targeting unsuspecting shoppers” at the mall.

Halton police say they have received 45 reports of theft at Toronto Premium Outlets in 2026, many involving pickpocketing.

Since November 2025, more than 70 cellphones have been reported stolen from unsuspecting shoppers. Other stolen items include bags and wallets.

Police say these types of thefts are common and often involve two or more suspects working together. Suspects typically watch for people using their phones while shopping, police say.

“Once a target is identified, they follow the victim and create an opportunity to make contact — often by bumping or brushing against them — while simultaneously accessing pockets to remove a phone or wallet,” police said in a news release.

To reduce the risk of theft, police advise the public to:

• Keep phones in a secured interior pocket or bag when not in use
• Maintain a firm grip on devices in crowded areas
• Never leave phones unattended
• Stay aware of surroundings, including anyone watching or following you
• Keep phones out of sight and use them only when necessary