A man south of Edmonton was assaulted and robbed during an attempt to sell some items online Monday night, Mounties said.
Beaumont RCMP said the man was attempting to sell items through a social media platform and made arrangements to meet the potential buyers at his own home.
READ MORE: Police urge safety on buy-and-sell websites like Kijiji
Two other men arrived at the victim’s residence pretending to buy the advertised items, but instead assaulted the victim and took the merchandise without paying, according to RCMP. Mounties said they were called at around 8:45 p.m. after the attack took place.
Police said the incident is a reminder to be careful when using public buy-and-sell pages like Kijiji, Craigslist and Facebook, and to take all necessary precautions when making transactions.
RCMP said sellers should avoid meeting potential buyers while alone and if possible, plan to meet in a neutral, public area.
READ MORE: Police creating ‘safe zones’ for those buying and selling online
Police in several Canadian jurisdictions have creating “safe zones” at police stations for those buying and selling items online.
While Calgary police have dedicated “buy and sell zones,” the Edmonton Police Service does not have designated spots in its parking lots for internet sale meetings.
READ MORE: Edmonton police warn of ‘bad guys’ on the other end of Kijiji, Craigslist deals
The EPS website says those using police parking lots should remember the stations are not open 24/7, officers are not monitoring the parking lots and police cannot guarantee that an officer would be able to respond if something goes awry.
For more tips on how to stay safe when meeting an online buyer/seller in person, visit the Edmonton Police Service’s website.
Anyone with information about Monday’s incident is asked to call Beaumont RCMP at 780-929-7400.
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