By CHAT News Today

Police arrest man in connection with alleged gold scam

Jun 21, 2018 | 12:02 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Medicine Hat Police Service has arrested a man in connection with alleged sales of fraudulent gold.

On June 13, police issued a warning regarding a jewellery scam which had allegedly been operating in the city.

Witnesses were allegedly approached by people of Middle Eastern descent, who tell the complainants they are in need of money for gas and food. A news release from police says witnesses have been approached by a man and woman, both in their early 30’s.

The suspects offer 18 karat gold, bracelets and rings for a bargain price in exchange for cash. The victims of the scam later learn the gold is worthless.

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The scam has been reported in three locations in Medicine Hat, all in the parking lot of local shopping areas. Officers believe there are multiple different people and vehicles involved in the scam in Medicine Hat. In recent months, similar scams have been reported in other communities in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

On Thursday morning, police arrested a 21-year-old man in the parking lot of a local business in connection with the alleged incidents. The man’s name will not be released until charges are sworn against him.

Staff Sergeant Ryan Thorburn said there was another traffic stop today.

“We had another incident today with three seperate people, so that’s five people in our community alone in seperate vehicles, a bunch of different people,” said Thorburn.  “I know the media release is focusing on two people in particular but we’re dealing with a large group of travelling criminals in Alberta and Saskatchewan.”  

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Medicine Hat Police Service at 403-529-8481 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.