EPS issues Public warnings after two jewellery frauds in Southeast Edmonton
The Edmonton Police Service is warning the public to be cautious after two incidents involving road-side jewellery frauds were reported to police over the last several days.
On Sunday, March 1, 2020, at approximately 11 a.m., Southeast patrol members responded to a suspicious persons call near 23 Avenue and Calgary Trail. A male driver travelling south on Calgary Trail was flagged down by two suspects, who were standing by a black BMW.
It was reported to police that the suspects told the complainant they were robbed the evening before and needed funds to purchase plane tickets to get back to Dubai. It is alleged the suspects then offered the complainant high-quality Dubai gold in exchange for money.
The complainant refused, at which time one of the complainants attempted to reach in through his vehicle window to unlock the driver-side door. The complainant was able to flee the scene in his vehicle and contact police.
The main suspect is described as approximately 5’8 in height, pale skin, with very short, dark hair and heavy set.
On Monday, March 2, 2020, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Southeast patrol members responded to a similar incident, near 91 Street and Ellerslie Road. Driving east on 91 Street near the Anthony Henday entrance, a male driver was flagged down by male and female standing near an older model, silver Mercedes Benz (burnt out headlamp).
It was reported to police that the suspects in this incident, again offered to allegedly sell expensive 18K gold jewellery for a large sum of money, as the suspects needed to return home to Dubai. In this instance, the complainant agreed to purchase gold chains and rings from the suspects. After completing the transaction, the complainant then took the items to a jeweller to be appraised and was informed the pieces were imitation gold.
The complainants targeted in each incident were unable to record the suspect vehicle licence plate.
Anyone with information about these suspects or the two jewelry frauds is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.