Richmond RCMP extends hours for marketplace safe zone

The Richmond RCMP is extending the operational hours of a space made to help facilitate exchanges after a reported rise in online transaction-related fraud and robbery incidents.

The main detachment lobby on No. 5 Road in Richmond is home to a ‘safe exchange zone,’ where local residents can meet to safely complete sales or trades organized on online platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

“With CCTV monitoring and a public location, this initiative aims to reduce the risk of theft, fraud, and confrontations that can occur in unregulated meeting spots,” Mounties said.

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.

In response to the incidents, the RCMP says it’s extending the Safe Exchange Zone operating hours to open consistently at 8 a.m., and close at 7 p.m. on weekdays and at 5 p.m. on weekends and statutory holidays.

Besides using the Safe Exchange Zone, Mounties recommend following these five tips to stay safe while making a deal:

Richmond RCMP recommends the following safety tips for Richmond residents meeting in person for an online transaction:

• Meet in daylight or during early hours. Avoid evening or late-night transactions. Daylight provides better visibility and may lower risks.
• Bring a companion. If feasible, bring a friend or family member along to the meet-up.
• Avoid revealing personal information. Limit what you share about your residence or daily routine to prevent future safety concerns.
• Inspect items and confirm details in advance. Ensure all transaction details, including price and condition, are clear before the meetup to avoid disputes. Stay alert to your surroundings. Be cautious and aware of people or vehicles in the vicinity during the transaction.

—With files from Aastha Pandey-Kanaan