Ottawa police say transnational theft groups operating in city, across Canada

Ottawa Police Service are warning the public of transnational theft groups operating in Canada.

OPS says Canadian forces have confirmed the presence of South American Theft Groups (SATGs), which are defined as organized “crime-tourists.”

Police say these groups enter Canada legally for short periods, during which they commit residential and retail break-ins.

“These small, mobile groups have been active in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta,” OPS said in a press release. “Recent investigations and arrests in Ottawa, the GTA, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary link numerous high-value break-ins to SATG-style operations.”

Officers say these groups target high-value items like jewellery, watches, cash, designer goods and small safes. These items are either shipped abroad or resold quickly.

The OPS says homes that back onto the greenbelt or parks are at higher risk. Residents are also encouraged to have a trusted neighbour check on their homes while on vacation.

Residents are also encouraged to lock all doors and windows, use alarms and install motion-sensor lighting. Doorbell cameras are also a good option, police say.

The police force says it is continuing to monitor activity in conjunction with partner agencies.

To report suspicious activity, contact the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 7300.