Montreal police make 5 arrests in distraction thefts targeting seniors, jewelry [Video]

Montreal police say they have arrested five people this week related to a number of recent distraction thefts involving seniors, the latest in a rash of similar incidents that have prompted warnings from police forces across the country.

The issue has gained prominence in recent months, with police departments in cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa and throughout the Toronto area warning citizens about the practice earlier this year.

Montreal police issued a statement on Friday saying three men aged 34, 39 and 45 and two women aged 36 and 37 were arrested last Tuesday and Wednesday.

Three of the accused appeared on charges of theft of less than $5,000, while the other two were released with conditions and will appear at a later date.

Montreal police say their investigation is ongoing and there is a possibility of similar unreported thefts.

Police also seized three vehicles at a residence in Longueuil’s …