Beware: 'Crime tourists' back in town, police say

Ottawa police and their colleagues across Canada sent out alerts this week about the return of the “South American theft groups.”

The thieves, also called “crime tourists,” legally enter the country alone or in small groups, then “commit coordinated residential and retail break-ins,” police said.

In addition to Ottawa, investigations in the Greater Toronto Area, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary have tied high-value robberies to these groups.

Police say these groups operate quickly and target cash, as well as jewelry, high-value watches, designer goods and small safes, which they then send abroad to resell.

Thieves typically gain entry through rear and second-storey windows, as well as glass doors.

Ottawa police issued a few tips:

• Install home security systems, including alarms and cameras, and ensure windows and doors are locked;

• When travelling, avoid posting about your trip online;

• Enlist a house-sitter;

• Report suspicious activity including apparent scouting of your area by vehicles or people.

Ottawa police say arrests have been made in connection to these sorts crimes but have not specified how many.

Police say to call 911 if there is a crime in progress.

Otherwise, incidents and suspicious activity can be reported to Ottawa police at 613-236-1222, ext. 7300. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppers.ca.