Toronto Police launch “Project Rope” to raise awareness of thefts on TTC

TORONTO, Ont. – Thefts of cell phones and other electronic devices are becoming a daily occurrence on the TTC, and have prompted Toronto Police to launch a program raising awareness about the problem.

Constable Wendy Drummond says officers from 42 Division will be riding buses tonight as part of “Project Rope”, offering tips on how to protect your property and stay safe while waiting for or riding buses.

She says thieves use different tactics, including “asking for the time. They could be working in pairs, so when you’re distracted looking at your watch, there’s the second person taking that phone, either from your pocket [or] your purse. We have had cases where violence has been used and people have been injured trying to protect their property.”

“What we want to get across is, be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be so tunnel-visioned into your electronic device and forget what’s going on around you,” she told 680News.

She adds that should you become a target, comply with the thieves’ demands, get a good description of the suspect and call police.

“If you see something, say it. If you’re on a transit system and you see a theft happening, let the bus driver know. Alert people around you.”

The program will be carried out between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., Wednesday.

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