Rash of robberies target riders leaving TTC

The TTC teamed up with Toronto Police and Toronto Crime Stoppers on Jan. 29 to help solve a rash of street robberies in Scarborough’s north end.

Toronto Police identified a trend in robberies being committed by males 16 to 25 years of age, many of which are targeting people getting off TTC buses or near bus stops. The robberies being committed are increasingly violent, said 42 Division Detective Sergeant Gerry Heaney.

Heaney said while TTC surveillance video has been very valuable in these investigations, Crime Stoppers video was released today at Toronto Police Headquarters with an appeal for information about robberies that have occurred over the past year. He said in several of the crimes, people are targeted leaving the TTC with a valuable cell phone or tablet and are distracted because they are wearing head phones or using the device.

“Many crimes are crimes of opportunity so we want to make ourselves the most undesirable targets to criminals,” said Transit Enforcement Head Mark Cousins.

Cousins offered the following tips for TTC riders and the general public:

• Walk with confidence and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be sure to stay alert at all times, even when using electronic devices, such as cell phones or tablets.
• Keep valuables out of sight and bag zippers or fasteners closed.
• If you see something suspicious don’t hesitate to report it to a TTC employee, Special Constable or police.
• Use the Emergency Alarm on subway trains if police, fire, or medical services are needed.
• Any customer can take advantage of the Request Stop Program when travelling by bus between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Anyone with information about unsolved robberies, or people who may be committing robberies, can call 42 Division at 416-808-4204 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).