Toronto police have confirmed that the memorial plaques previously feared stolen from a Highway 401 overpass along the Highway of Heroes were not lifted by thieves, but were removed while maintenance was performed on the bridge.

Police said Wednesday that an engineering firm responsible for bridge maintenance had the plaques temporarily removed while the work was done at the Victoria Park Avenue overpass.

“Unfortunately the removal was not brought to the attention of The True Patriot Love Foundation or the Corporate Security office of Enbridge,” police said in a release.

“The plaques are intact and it is anticipated that they will be returned to the foundation for a re-dedication.”

The plaques, which pay tribute to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, depict a soldier hand in hand with a child below a Canadian flag.



