Toronto police have announced the arrest of a man believed to be responsible for two home invasions in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including one in Toronto’s Moss Park neighborhood. The investigation was launched earlier this month following a reported home invasion near Shuter and Parliament streets on May 12.

According to the police, the male suspect contacted a sex trade worker and arranged a meeting. Upon arriving at the victim’s residence for the scheduled encounter, the suspect entered the home, brandished a handgun, and demanded cash. However, the victim informed the suspect that she did not possess any money, prompting the suspect to flee the scene empty-handed.

The Toronto police’s Hold Up Squad initiated an investigation into the incident, simultaneously collaborating with the Peel Regional Police Criminal Investigative Bureau, who were conducting their own investigation into a similar incident involving a sex trade worker. On May 13, Peel police officers executed a search warrant, resulting in the arrest of a male suspect in connection with their ongoing investigation. However, the suspect was subsequently released on bail later that day.

Upon further coordination between the Toronto Hold Up Squad and Peel Regional Police, it was determined that the arrested individual was linked to the home invasion that occurred in Toronto. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Yousef Babiker, was re-arrested on May 19. He now faces eight charges, including robbery with a firearm, in relation to the Toronto police investigation.

Authorities suspect that the arrested individual may be involved in additional similar crimes, although the charges against him have yet to be proven in court. In an effort to gather more information about the suspect, the police have released images of Babiker and are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and contact the Toronto Police Service.

The arrest of the suspect in connection with the home invasions provides some relief to the affected communities. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies demonstrate their commitment to swiftly apprehending individuals involved in such crimes and ensuring the safety of residents. As the investigation progresses, it is hoped that the police will uncover any additional criminal activity and bring those responsible to justice.