Ottawa Police warn public of transnational theft groups operating across Canada

Ottawa – The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is alerting residents to the confirmed presence of South American Theft Groups (SATGs)—organized “crime-tourist” crews who enter Canada legally for short periods to commit coordinated residential and retail break-ins.

These small, mobile groups have been active in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta. Recent investigations and arrests in Ottawa, the GTA, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary link numerous high-value break-ins to SATG-style operations. Stolen items commonly include jewelry, luxury watches, cash, designer goods, and small safes, often shipped abroad or resold quickly.

How They Operate

• Targets: Homes backing onto greenbelts or parks; unoccupied homes, especially during travel periods.

• Entry: Rear or second-storey windows; forced entry through patio doors or glass panels.

Prevention Tips

• Home security: Lock all doors and windows, use monitored alarms, install motion-sensor lighting.

• Surveillance: Use CCTV or doorbell cameras; register systems with police programs where available.

• Travel: Avoid posting travel plans; ask neighbours to watch your home.

• Neighbourhood vigilance: Report suspicious people, vehicles, or scouting behaviour.

The Ottawa Police Service will continue to monitor activity, collaborate with partner agencies, and provide public updates as new information becomes available.

For crimes in progress or immediate threats, call 911. To report past incidents or suspicious activity, contact the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 7300.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppers.ca.