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By Chris Brown

Travelling organized crime group suspected

RCMP warning about scams and distraction thefts

Apr 8, 2021 | 9:39 AM

CALGARY – RCMP are warning the public after receiving multiple reports of transaction scams and distraction thefts in Calgary and surrounding areas.

Police believe they are linked to a travelling organized crime group.

RCMP say the most recent incidents happened in Brooks, Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere and Okotoks.

The transaction scams usually involve suspects approaching people asking for money for gas to get home or food to feed their family. They offer to trade for jewelry or other goods, which turn out to be poor quality or fake.

Distraction thefts may involve the suspect shaking hands or hugging someone while taking their valuables without their knowledge, or pickpocketing.

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Mounties say suspects are hard to identify due to their transient lifestyle and often fraudulent identification.

RCMP ask the public to be cautious and contact local law enforcement if you are a victim of such a scam or theft.