Mounties in Richmond are warning of a fraud group allegedly selling fake gold and jewelry, claiming that they need financial help.
In a public warning issued Saturday, Richmond RCMP said its economic crimes unit has identified a series of such frauds, including four incidents over a four-day period in Richmond and one in Langley.
While a number of victims turned down the suspects, in one case a victim was allegedly defrauded of $2,500.
The suspects allegedly attempt to sell the fake items “under the guise of needing financial assistance,” according to Richmond RCMP.
“This modus operandi resurfaces periodically in Richmond and across the Lower Mainland,” said Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP spokesperson, in a statement.
“The fact is these fraudsters use various tactics, including playing to people’s emotions, including bringing children with them. We can’t stress enough if someone approaches you on the street offering to sell you gold or jewelry, regardless of their explanation, say no.”
People are advised to immediately walk away if they are approached and, when safe to do so, report the incident to their local police.
However, Mounties said that in at least one case in Richmond, the attempted fraud was not reported to police.
RCMP said it is important to report these types of incidents, even attempted frauds, as it allows police to attend and investigate.
“This includes utilizing a variety of investigative techniques in an attempt to identify the individual(s) involved,” Richmond RCMP said in a statement.
“It is also important as it can assist police in determining motive as well as potential crime trends.”
