Police in Canada’s Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have issued a public warning after discovering a burglary scouting technique in which suspects allegedly place a glue-like substance on apartment doors to determine whether units are occupied before attempting break-ins.
According to York Regional Police, the incidents occurred in residential buildings in Markham and Richmond Hill, where two unidentified suspects allegedly gained access to apartment complexes and applied a small amount of adhesive material to unit doors.
How the Scheme Works
Investigators say the suspects secretly placed the glue-like substance on apartment doors and later returned to inspect it.
If the glue remained undisturbed, the suspects allegedly assumed the resident had not opened the door and that the unit was likely vacant, making it a potential target for a break-in.
Police described the tactic as a method of “scouting” occupied and unoccupied residences before committing property crimes.
Surveillance Footage Released
York Regional Police released surveillance video from an incident on May 16, showing two masked individuals entering a residential building.
The footage reportedly shows:
- Two suspects entering the building.
- One suspect struggling briefly before opening the main entrance door.
- The pair using stairwells to access multiple floors.
- A close-up image showing what appears to be glue placed on the upper corner of an apartment door.
Police Advice for Residents
Authorities are urging apartment and condominium residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.
Residents should:
- Check their doors regularly for unusual markings, tape, glue, or other substances.
- Report unfamiliar individuals loitering in hallways or stairwells.
- Ensure building entrance doors close securely behind them.
- Avoid allowing unknown individuals to “tailgate” into secured buildings.
- Contact police if they notice suspicious activity or evidence of tampering.
Investigation Ongoing
Police have not yet identified the suspects and are seeking information from the public. Investigators believe the glue tactic may have been used to identify vulnerable units before attempted break-ins.
Authorities are reminding residents that seemingly minor signs, such as glue, tape, stickers, or markings on doors, can sometimes be indicators of criminal reconnaissance and should not be ignored.
The investigation remains ongoing.
