Police tell Toronto residents to 'be vigilant' after string of break-ins
Nighttime break-ins across a wide swath of Toronto's north end had police warning residents Monday to be on the alert.
Investigators say there have been 12 burglaries in the past two weeks.
"It's happening in the middle of the night while homeowners are home," Sgt. Matthew Routh told CBC News. "We don't know how many people are involved."
They have happened in an area bounded by Steeles Avenue to the north, Highway 404 to the east, Sheppard Avenue East to the south, and Bayview Avenue to the west.
There have been no reports of injuries, though there have been several reports of homeowners "awakened by the sound of the intrusion," Routh said.
"Our description ... so far is simply a male dressed in black clothing at this time."
During some of the break-ins, intruders cut screens and opened unlocked windows.
Police are asking homeowners to "be vigilant of suspicious people, vehicles, or activity in their neighbourhood, and to call 911."
Police say homeowners should secure their homes by ensuring fence gates are closed and windows locked. Home security systems should be armed and cameras activated. Exterior lighting may also be an effective tool, police say.
