Richmond RCMP warn of gold scam targeting Asian women

VANCOUVER – Richmond RCMP have issued a warning about a scam that has recently resurfaced in the community.

They say victims are being tricked into purchasing ‘priceless’ ancient Chinese treasures, that in reality, are completely worthless.

In the latest cases, the suspect poses as a Chinese foreign construction worker who has allegedly uncovered a treasure trove of artifacts at a construction site. He tells the victim the figures are priceless gold ingots and figurines of Buddha and that he is willing to sell them all to the victim at a substantial loss. Police say it is important to remember the suspect may be using a variation of this story to deceive his victims, who have all been Asian women in their late 40s or older and are specifically fluent in Mandarin. Most have been employed in the field of traditional Chinese medicine.

Police say some victims have lost tens of thousands of dollars.

The suspect is an Asian male in his 30s who speaks fluent Mandarin. He may be working alone or accompanied by a second Mandarin speaking Asian male, roughly the same age.

“It is unfortunate for us to have to reiterate, but if a deal sounds too good to be true, it most likely is,” says Cst. Janice Xia of the Richmond RCMP.

If you have been a victim of this type of crime, contact Xia of the Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. To leave a tip on this crime, email Richmond_Tips@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).