Police search for 5 people who allegedly targeted elderly people at ATMs in 'distraction' thefts
Three men and two women are wanted by Toronto police for allegedly targeting elderly people at ATMs, stealing their bank cards and withdrawing money from their accounts.
Police have released photos of five suspects wanted for "distraction theft and fraud," hoping the public will help to identify them. Police said they received five reports from Oct. 9, 2024 to Feb. 28, 2025 of elderly people being robbed throughout the Toronto area.
In each case, police said the thieves approached an elderly person while they were using an ATM. The person's bank card was stolen when they were distracted. The suspects used the stolen bank card after each theft to withdraw money from the person's bank account.
Each incident involved two to four suspects.
The first suspect is described as male, 30 to 45 years old, 5 foot 10 inches to 6 foot 2 inches, with a medium build, dark coloured hair, and a full beard.
The second suspect is described as male, 35 to 50 years old, 5 foot 8 inches to 5 foot 10 inches with a medium build, dark coloured hair, and a beard.
The third suspect is described as male, 30 to 45 years old, 5 foot 7 inches to 5 foot 10 inches, with a medium build, dark coloured hair, and a goatee.
The fourth suspect is described as female, 30 to 45 years old, 5 foot 2 inches to 5 foot 8 inches, with a medium build.
The fifth suspect is described as female, 30 to 50 years old, 5 foot 5 inches to 5 foot 8 inches, with a heavy build, and long brown hair.
Be aware of people around you when using ATM: police
Police are reminding the public to do the following when using ATMs:
Do not let anyone distract you during your transaction at an ATM or while making a debit or credit purchase in a store, even if they may appear to be a helpful stranger.
Be aware of others around you when using an ATM.
Avoid using an ATM if you see suspicious people nearby.
Remember to always shield your PIN at an ATM or while making a debit or credit purchase.
When you've finished a transaction, take your cash quickly and discreetly put your card away before leaving the ATM.
Do not use an ATM if there are signs of tampering or if suspicious devices are visible.
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