Fraudulent bank drafts used to purchase vehicles in Richmond: RCMP

A man has been arrested for allegedly purchasing vehicles with fraudulent bank drafts, police say in a warning.

The Richmond RCMP issued a warning on Wednesday after arresting a suspect who allegedly used fraudulent bank drafts to purchase three vehicles.

Mounties say five more vehicles have since been identified as part of this alleged fraud series, with a combined value of $443,688. Police say they received reports concerning these vehicles during January and February.

Now, officers are warning others who could be victims of this type of fraud.

“We are issuing this public warning as we believe there may be additional victims who are not yet aware that their vehicle was purchased using a potential fraudulent bank draft,” says Corporal Melissa Lui with the Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit.

“If you are a victim we ask that you contact your police of jurisdiction. We are also asking anyone who may have information about these investigations to come forward.”

The RCMP says to protect against fraud, the public should make sure to confirm the authenticity of bank drafts, meet buyers at banks to “observe the bank draft being ordered” and ensure the draft is cleared before handing over the purchased item.

The suspect has since been released from custody.

The Richmond RCMP Organized Crime Unit is taking over this investigation that is active and ongoing.