By Shane Clausing

Group known to police

RCMP warn of travelling fraudsters following reports of scams across Peace Region

Jun 16, 2021 | 5:13 PM

The Western Alberta District RCMP is warning the public about an increase in reports from across the Peace Region of individuals being approached by fraudsters in a series of transaction scams and distraction thefts.

According to RCMP, the most recent incidents have been reported in Fox Creek, Valleyview, Peace River and Grande Prairie.

Mounties believe the criminal activity is linked to a travelling organized crime group that is known to police.

Typically, these suspects approach individuals requesting money for items like gas or food, while in exchange offering jewelry and other goods.

The goods given to the victims are often of lower quality or fake.

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RCMP say victims have also reported cases of what they call distraction theft. Police say such instances involve suspects making physical contact with the victim through a handshake or a hug, while in turn removing valuables from the individual without their knowledge.

While the group is known to RCMP, they say the suspects are difficult to identify due to their transient lifestyle and often fraudulent identification.

Anyone who has potentially been a victim of this type of suspicious activity is asked to contact the RCMP or CrimeStoppers.