Mounties issue warning after series of online marketplace robberies in Richmond

Mounties in Richmond have issued a public warning to be careful when buying and selling things on online marketplaces following a series of robberies.

In a release Monday, the Richmond RCMP says six alleged robberies happened along Williams Road near a local school. Four out of six of these incidents were between Oct. 14 and Nov. 1 and five were reported between 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.

They say each incident involved victims attempting to sell items through an online marketplace, arranging to meet a buyer near the school.

“In each instance, the victim was approached by an individual who asked to see the item. Once in possession of the item, the suspect would either flee or a second suspect would approach to take the item without payment,” Mounties said.

RCMP says some victims reported that sometimes the suspect refused to pay, and threatened the victims if they resisted.

“Several victims have reported being threatened with a weapon, and in one instance, a victim was reportedly physically assaulted by two suspects.”

Mounties say the close timing and similarities in suspect descriptions suggest that these incidents may be connected.

“The frequency and escalating nature of these robberies are concerning,” says Corporal Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP Media Relations Officers, in the release. “Our goal is to prevent further incidents by alerting the public. If you are selling items, please arrange to meet at a public location, such as our Safe Exchange Zone, during daylight or early evening hours.”

RCMP says to minimize risk buyers and sellers are urged to follow their safety tips.

1. Richmond RCMP Safe Exchange Zone whenever possible is crucial. This zone is located at the main detachment, with CCTV coverage and a secure environment;
2. Meet in well-lit public areas that have high foot traffic and are not secluded;
3. Avoid scheduling transactions in the evening;
4. Bring a friend for added security;
5. Limit the sharing of personal information like address and workplace;
6. Trust your instincts. RCMP says if you feel unsafe then leave the area immediately.

Richmond RCMP General Investigation Section is currently actively investigating these robberies.

Anyone with information regarding these investigations is asked to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote file number 2024-34703. You can also call Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 if you wish to stay anonymous or go online at www.solvecrime.ca.