Edmonton – Thieves in Edmonton are targeting people – typically seniors – by approaching them with promises of cheap or free jewellery. Once the victim is distracted, the thieves switch the victim’s jewellery or remove it while the person is distracted.
The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is warning residents to be aware if they’re approached by strangers with a similar offer because these “distraction-style” crimes are increasing across the city.
Police are particularly concerned that in some recent incidents, victims were assaulted and robbed after they informed the thieves they weren’t interested.
Victims have also purchased jewellery that is stamped 14/18 karat, only to find out later it is costume jewellery.
There have been 90 incidents reported to police since May, including 13 during the month of October.
Police believe the same group of thieves is responsible for the incidents.
During one incident in late September, police say a man was walking though a Mill Woods parking lot when he was approached by another man who claimed to be selling gold jewellery. When the alleged victim declined, he was reportedly robbed at knifepoint by the man who then fled the scene in a vehicle.
The suspects are described as men and women with dark complexions and dark hair. They are said to have heavy accents that could be Eastern European or Middle Eastern.
The suspects are believed to be traveling throughout Alberta.
Anyone with information about the “distraction-style” thefts is asked to contact the EPS at (780) 423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.