Increased organized crime and violence toward Quebec businesses prompt series of raids

The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) announced a new series of raids and collaboration in Quebec over the coming weeks following an increase in organized crime targeting retail stores.

The RCC says the areas that will be targeted are Gatineau, Terrebonne, Quebec City, Laval, and the Longueuil.

Officials have also organized a collaboration with retailers, police forces, and recognized industry experts to exchange ideas on ways to strengthen prevention and security at businesses.

The goal is to target organized groups that have been gaining traction in recent years, causing safety issues for employees and customers and leading to billions of dollars in losses.

“Behind every theft, there are employees who have to manage unforeseen situations, customers who may fear for their safety, and business owners who suffer the consequences,” said Michel Rochette, president of the CCCD – Quebec.

Officials say the raids have been made possible through close collaboration between police forces and retailers.

“We commend the commitment of the police forces with whom we collaborate,” said Rochette. “We also know that their resources are limited. Too often, our members report that police officers cannot respond, even to concerning situations. They must be given the resources to intervene commensurate with the seriousness of the problem.”

Recent robberies at jewelry stores in Greater Montreal, particularly in Laval and Brossard, highlight the growing concern among businesses as they face the risk of unpredictable violence.

According to a Léger poll conducted for the CCCD in June 2026, 80 per cent of Quebecers familiar with organized crime targeting retail stores believe it poses a risk to the safety of employees and customers. Among these same respondents, 59 per cent feel that political and police authorities are not doing enough to address the issue.

“Crime in retail stores has changed,” said Rochette. “The presence of organized groups and repeat offenders requires a change in how we respond.”

The 2025 report from the CCCD and the Loss Prevention Research Council (LPRC) estimates annual losses in the Canadian retail sector at $9.2 billion.

This collaboration will continue on Oct. 16 in Montreal at Contact Sécurité, an event organized by the CCCD.