Suspect Arrested in String of Ontario Bank Robberies
A 52-year-old Oakville man has been arrested and charged in connection with a province-wide bank robbery spree, involving 16 armed hold-ups across Hamilton, Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Guelph, Halton, and Niagara.
Following a multi-jurisdictional investigation, Hamilton Police Service identified and arrested Alan Haaksma, who now faces more than two dozen charges, including:
- 16 counts of robbery with an offensive weapon
- 7 counts of disguise with intent
- 2 counts of possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000
Between February 8 and February 25, Haaksma allegedly targeted multiple banks, threatening employees with a knife while demanding cash. In 14 of the 16 incidents, banks were specifically targeted, and in several cases, the suspect wore a mask to conceal his identity.
Police from multiple jurisdictions collaborated to track the suspect, leading to his arrest on February 26.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about this case to contact Hamilton Police Service at 905-546-8934.
Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters remain completely anonymous, are never required to testify, and may be eligible for a $2,000 reward.