UPDATE #1 - Suspect Identified in Hindu Temple Break-and-Enters

Police have identified the suspect of multiple break-and-enters at Hindu temples.

On Sunday, October 8, 2023, at approximately 12:45 a.m., members of West Division responded to reports of a break-and-enter in progress at a Hindu temple in the area of Bayly Street and Krosno Boulevard in Pickering.  A male was seen on security surveillance breaking into the temple and taking a large quantity of cash from the donation boxes.  The male fled the area prior to police arrival.  The male was seen on surveillance footage later that morning committing additional break-and-enters at Hindu temples in Pickering and Ajax.

Investigators have linked the same suspect to numerous other break-and-enters at Hindu temples throughout the year.  These break-and-enters occurred in Durham Region and around the Greater Toronto Area.

Although these offences occurred at places of worship, they do not appear to be hate crimes or motivated by hate.   

Jagdish PANDHER, age 41 from Brampton is facing charges for numerous offences including: Break-and-Enter Place Other Than Dwelling x4, Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000 x4, Break-and-Enter with Intent x1, and Breach of Probation x5.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone that has any information about these incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Aselton of the West Division Property Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2535.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court.

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ORIGINAL RELEASE SENT ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023

Police are searching for a suspect after three religious temples were broken into.