Law enforcement authorities are urging the public to be cautious of strangers seeking hugs or sharing emotional stories following the arrest of three individuals involved in a series of distraction thefts throughout Canada.
According to Edmonton police, there have been 63 reported incidents since May where individuals had their belongings stolen while being distracted by thieves. Last week, three women were charged with theft in connection to the ongoing investigation, which also involved the RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency. Additional warrants have been issued for three more individuals suspected to be part of the criminal scheme.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Edmonton police Constable Shiva Shunmugam revealed that the suspects are believed to be linked to similar thefts spanning from British Columbia to Toronto, indicating that the criminal activity is not confined to Alberta but is a nationwide issue.
The modus operandi of the thieves is simple yet effective. Operating in groups that appear as families, they target vulnerable individuals in various locations such as grocery stores and parking lots, initiating conversations and even requesting hugs or blessings for jewelry. However, amidst the interaction, the culprits swiftly steal the victim’s valuables and flee in a vehicle, often bearing license plates from provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, or Quebec.
This alarming trend of distraction thefts is reported to be occurring across the country, with incidents ranging from British Columbia to Ottawa and Winnipeg. In British Columbia, seniors were targeted by compliments and jewelry swaps, while in Ottawa, elderly victims had their rings and necklaces snatched. Winnipeg also witnessed similar distraction thefts, with suspects using fake stories to deceive victims.
In one case in Edmonton, a 70-year-old woman fell victim to theft after being approached with a fabricated story about a deceased grandmother. The involvement of the Canada Border Services Agency in the investigation in Edmonton was confirmed by Shunmugam due to claims of protected status made by some suspects, suggesting they may be refugees or individuals seeking protection in Canada.
Shunmugam emphasized the transient nature of the group, making it challenging for law enforcement to apprehend them quickly. Victims of these thefts have been emotionally scarred, with one individual too traumatized to leave their home. In response, the public is advised to be vigilant and assertive in safeguarding their personal space and belongings.