Two arrested, three more sought in pickpocketing incident at Toronto Premium Outlets

Halton police have arrested two people in connection with a pickpocketing incident at Toronto Premium Outlets, but the investigation continues as authorities search for another three suspects involved in an additional theft.

On March 22 at approximately 4:55 p.m., officers received a report of two suspects stealing a cell phone from a shopper. Authorities attended the scene and subsequently located and arrested both suspects.

As a result, a 35-year-old Toronto man has been charged with theft under $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000.

A 33-year-old woman from Montreal was also arrested and charged with theft under $5,000.

Following these arrests, investigators issued a warning to the public about ongoing pickpocketing thefts at the shopping centre.

Officers are looking for three more suspects connected to another pickpocketing incident, which they say was committed by an organized group targeting unsuspecting shoppers.

Police released a video of the incident that happened on April 11 just before 4 p.m.

According to reports, the group followed two women through a store, maintaining a close distance while pretending to browse clothing racks.

One suspect managed to position themselves as a physical barrier between the two women.

Taking advantage of this split-second distraction, another member of the group reached into a victim’s jacket pocket. Within five seconds, the thief successfully retrieved a smartphone, concealed it behind a stack of clothing and calmly exited the area.

A third woman is believed to have acted as a lookout.

No arrests have been made in connection with this pickpocketing incident.

Police say these incidents are common and often involve two or more people working together – adding they’ve received 45 reports of this type of theft at the Toronto Premium Outlets this year alone.

Since November 2025, more than 70 cell phones have been reported stolen in this fashion from unsuspecting victims at the mall. Bags and wallets were also targeted.

Authorities say some ways to prevent getting your phone stolen is keeping it in a closed pocket or bag, maintaining a firm grip on it in crowded areas and staying aware of your surroundings – watching for people who may be observing or following you.

Anyone with information regarding thefts at the outlet mall are being asked to contact police at 905-825-4777, ext. 2416.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via their website.

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