Police Issue Warning to Public Regarding Theft From Vehicles Rendering Them Unsafe For Operation

Investigators from the 11 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau are warning the public of a number of thefts from vehicles which are rendering the vehicles unsafe for operation after the property is removed.

Between November 2016 and December 2016, there have been twelve thefts of the rear differential plates that have been removed from Dodge and GMC pick-up trucks. The incidents have occurred in the area of Mississauga Road and Highway 401 in the City of Mississauga. The suspect has targeted vehicles parked in large parking lots such as transit lots, car pool lots, and hotel parking lots.

The removal of the differential plate from underneath the vehicle results in the draining of fluid from the compartment which lubricates the gears and powers the axels of the truck. When not lubricated, the gears can overheat and seize without warning causing serious safety risks to the occupants of the vehicles.

Police are advising the public who operate these types of vehicles to check for any obvious fluid leakage underneath their vehicle while parked in large parking lots.  Police are seeking the public’s assistance and are asked to contact police if they observe anyone working underneath similar vehicles in parking lots.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact investigators at 11 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at (905)-453-2121, ext. 1133. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca or by sending a text message to CRIMES (274637) with the word “PEEL” and then your tip.