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POLICE are pursuing several cheerful Santas and mischievous elves who stole thousands of pounds worth of groceries intended for the needy in a Robin Hood-style act.
The holiday-themed robbers were caught in the act on CCTV, filling shopping carts with food from a grocery store before leaving without paying.
Thieves dressed as Santa and elves stole shopping carts filled with foodCredit: Instagram/soulevementsdufleuve
An activist group claimed responsibility and said they provided the food to those in needCredit: Instagram/soulevementsdufleuve
The Montreal-based activist group, Robins of the Alleys, took credit for the theft, stating on social media that their actions were driven by good intentions.
The stolen groceries, valued at approximately £1,600, were taken to help struggling families enjoy meals during the holiday season, they explained.
The pilfered items were distributed beneath a public Christmas tree and to community food banks, according to the group.
“A handful of corporations are holding our basic needs hostage,” they posted online.
“They continue to oppress the population, taking as much as they can, simply because they can. For us, that’s theft, and they are the true criminals.”
The group characterized Monday’s incident as a “great food drive” and a political statement.
Montreal authorities confirmed they are investigating the theft, which occurred around 9:15 PM on Monday at a major grocery store in the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood.
Police are reviewing footage of the incident, but no arrests have been made yet.
A representative from Metro, the grocery store where the holiday heist occurred, emphasized that theft, regardless of the motive, is unacceptable and constitutes a criminal act.
They also noted that the company has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives in 2025, including a donation of $1.15 million to food banks and millions in food donations to other organizations.
Marc-André Cyr, a political science lecturer, remarked that in the current political climate, some individuals no longer trust institutions and are opting for direct action.
“This type of action generates discussion,” he told Radio-Canada’s Tout un matin, adding that the theft was “non-violent, festive, and timely.”
“There are people this week who have eaten significantly better than last week,” he stated.
The online response has been largely favorable, with locals commending the holiday vigilantes.
“I constantly hear stories about food banks lacking enough supplies for everyone who needs it,” one person commented.
“I’m sure the residents appreciate these types of Santas.”
Another remarked: “Not all heroes wear capes. Some don Santa costumes.”
“Leave Santa alone; he’s just doing his shopping for all the good people!” someone else added.
The groceries were left under a public Christmas treeCredit: Instagram/soulevementsdufleuve
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the group steal groceries?
The group, Robins of the Alleys, claimed that the theft was intended to help struggling families have meals during the holiday season.
What was the public's reaction to the theft?
The online response was mostly positive, with many locals praising the actions of the festive vigilantes as a necessary act in light of food bank shortages.
What is the status of the police investigation?
Montreal police are currently investigating the incident, reviewing CCTV footage, but no arrests have been made as of now.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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