Vancouver Police Warn of Scams Targeting Chinese Community Elders
In a recent series of incidents, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) has issued a caution to the Chinese community in Vancouver after two elderly women fell victim to a scam, losing significant amounts of money in the process.
According to VPD reports, perpetrators speaking Toisan or Taishanese dialects approached the elderly victims with promises of blessings and prosperity. The first incident occurred on Nov. 16 when a 74-year-old woman was approached by three individuals in the Kensington-Cedar Cottage neighborhood. The scammers convinced her that filling a bag with money would bring her wealth. After handing over $14,000, the scammers switched the bag with a decoy, making off with the victim’s money.
Just three days later, another elderly woman was targeted near Victoria Drive and Kingsway. She was persuaded to withdraw $120,000 in cash and jewelry from her safety deposit box under the guise of receiving a blessing for her family’s well-being. Unfortunately, the scammer absconded with her valuables after performing a fake blessing.
Both victims remained unaware of the scam for several days until family members intervened and reported the incidents to the authorities. The VPD suspects that these cases are connected and believes there may be additional victims within the community.
Const. Megan Lui emphasized the importance of having conversations with elderly family members to safeguard against falling prey to such scams. Anyone who suspects they have been targeted by scammers is advised to contact the VPD’s non-emergency line at 604-717-3321 to file a report promptly.