Thieves target cash donation boxes at 10 Mississauga and Brampton places of worship

Thieves are targeting cash donation boxes at north Mississauga and Brampton places of worship in what police describe as a rash of “crimes of opportunity” dating back to November.

Peel Regional Police say at least two culprits are believed to be responsible for 10 break-and-enters at temples in the Malton area of Mississauga and Brampton between last November and this month.

The culprits, described as South Asian men between 20 and 30 years old, make their way inside the buildings before grabbing the cash and fleeing the scene.

Police say the motive appears to be strictly financial.

“There is no evidence which would indicate that the break-and-enters are hate/bias motivated. There have been no acts of violence committed by the suspects against any temple occupants,” police said in an email statement to insauga.com.

“These appear to be crimes of opportunity. Our Divisional Mobilization Unit has been meeting with temples within the community to ensure they are aware of the recent events and crime prevention strategies that can be utilized to discourage future incidents.”

Police note they’ve beefed up the number of uniformed patrol officers in and around temples in Mississauga and Brampton in an effort to stop the crooks in their tracks.

Additionally, police say investigators will continue to work with community members in an attempt to identify those responsible.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 905-453-3311, ext. 2133 or Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

We're aware of a series of break and enters that have occurred at places of worship across our Region. We'd like to reassure the community that this matter is being actively investigated. Anyone with information is asked to contact 905-453-3311 ext. 2133 or Crime Stoppers.

— Peel Regional Police (@PeelPolice) February 11, 2022