Police warn of fake gold being sold in Richmond

RCMP has issued a public warning about fraudsters selling fake gold in Richmond.

Richmond RCMP says, there have been recent incidents of fraudsters allegedly selling fake gold and jewelry.

Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, Media Relations Officer says these types of frauds tend to resurface periodically in the community.

“We are issuing this public warning to bring awareness and educate people in the hopes of preventing further victimization,” she said.

Mounties say, in the recent incidents suspects have come up with two techniques, including “verbal inducements,” where they play on a person’s emotions and sell gold at a low price to convince the purchaser, or “slight of hand” — where the suspect places the fake jewelry onto the victim then removes the victim’s actual jewelry along with the fake items.

RCMP say, the suspects can be very convincing by using stories that “prey on the victim’s compassion” to give them money.

“These stories can include needing money to feed their family. The suspects in these series may also have their family, including children, present to add to the emotional pressure,” it said.

Police say, people should not go anywhere with the suspect, including banks or the nearest ATM.

The warning recommends the public walk away when approached by a suspect when it is safe to do so and report the incident.

So far the Richmond RCMP has received four reports involving this type of fraud.

“This is an example of ‘If it seems too good to be true it definitely is.’ 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 and walk away,” O’Malley said.