Monday, November 1, 2010

Recent Robberies at Ellesmere Rd. and Military Trail - Residents and Students Warned About Safety

Intersection at Military Trail and Ellesmere Road  (Photo Courtesy: Janice Yeung)

A number of robberies have occured at the intersection of Military Trail and Ellesmere Road from Saturday October 16 to Sunday October 17. According to the Toronto Police Service, the victims were assaulted by a group of males. A weapon was involved in these assaults and minor injuries were resulted.

According to the Toronto Police, a 21 year old female reported that on October 17 at approximately 9:30 p.m., she was approached by a male suspect in disguise. The suspect then grabbed her arm and produced a knife. While holding the knife at the victim's waist, two other male suspects approached her. They removed her cellular telephone and pushed her against a fence, which caused her to fall to the ground. The suspects then left the scene eastbound on Ellesmere Road.

The Toronto Police is requesting the assistance of the public in identifying one heavily built male suspect and four thin male suspects who are all black with light complexions.

Residents in this community is advised by the Police to adhere to rules of safety. Pedestrians are encouraged to walk with a purpose and not to use earphones or headphones while walking as it would be hard to be aware of approaching people.

If in the most unfortunate case we become victims of a crime, we should call the police immediately to report the incident. When it is safe to do so, call the police immediately by dialing 911 in order to increase the chance of the suspect being stopped from further criminal action.

If we notice something suspicious happening such as unusual noices of a person screaming, sounds of fighting or glass breaking, we should also contact the Police.

As students of Centennial College, it is important to increase our own awareness of crime and stay safe within the College and in surrounding areas. Do not bring valuables, jewelry or large amounts of money to school if it is not necessary.

If we are working late at night on campus, try to work with a friend and let him know when we expect to leave. Also, try to park cars in well lit areas so it would be less dangerous returning to them late at night.

While walking outside, we should avoid using short cuts or paths that have dim lighting and may cause us to be obscure from the sight of other pedestrians.

We should also be aware of what is going on around us. If we suspect that we are being followed, we should indicate our suspicion by looking behind us. We could cross the street, change directions or vary our route. If possible, head to a place where there are more people.

When in suspicion, do not hesitate to go immediately to a phone and call 911.

This article was originally published in The Courier (published by the Centennial College Student Association Inc.)  on Oct. 28, 2010.

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