Police are telling young people in St. Albert to stay in groups, with an adult, or to stay at home after a at least six cases of armed robberies in the city.
During these incidents, cellphones and other items were stolen from victims between 10 and 20 years old. The suspects produced what looked like a firearm during the robberies, according to police.
“They are approaching young people and starting up conversations to draw them closer to the vehicle. We’ve not seen any evidence of them intending to actually kidnap or grab a kid. But they’re trying to get within reach distance of property,” said Cpl. Laurel Kading.
According to Kading, the robberies are happening after school while kids are either walking home or hanging out in public spaces.
“If they’ve got that opportunity to walk with friends that would be good. Walk with an adult that would be better,” said Kading. “Just to kind of keep the temptation down for these suspects.”
READ MORE: RCMP seek suspects after violent robberies at cellphone store, beauty store in St. Albert
RCMP said while no one has been physically injured during the robberies, anyone who is confronted by the suspects should cooperate with their demands.
“Cooperate with it, we can replace property down the road. We want people to stay safe,” said Kading.
Police have released composite sketches of the two suspects as well as a surveillance photo of a vehicle believed to be used during the robberies. Police confirm it is a newer-model silver Ford Fiesta Hatchback.
Kading said the robberies have happened in different parts of the city and police have beefed up patrol.
READ MORE: 9 mailbox broken into over a month in St. Albert: RCMP
Anyone with information about the robberies or suspects is asked to contact Crime Stoppers or St. Albert RCMP.
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