BURNABY RCMP are informing the public of a recent rise in distraction thefts that began in mid-November. Since November 13, there has been a total of 10 incidents.

Burnaby RCMP’s Community Response Team has taken the investigational lead on these incidents and are looking to educate the public on how to remain vigilant. “Our investigators are working hard to identify the suspects,” said Constable Dwight Martin of Burnaby RCMP’s Community Response Team on Wednesday. “Victims have not only lost property, but family heirlooms that have significant memories attached to them.”

In most cases the victims reported that a male and two females approached them and had asked for directions. Two victims reported that one of the female suspects told them they were having a medical emergency and needed directions to a local hospital.

Once they have engaged the victim in a conversation, the suspect then attempts to hug them or touch their hand or wrist. This is done in an attempt to remove jewelry the victim is wearing and replace it with fake jewelry. In some of the reported cases the suspects did make off with the victim’s jewelry, while some attempts were unsuccessful, police said.

“It is important to report all incidents to police, even if there was no loss of property,” said Cpl. Laura Hirst, Burnaby RCMP Media Relations Officer. “If you have had a similar situation happen to you, we would like to hear from you. You may have important information that can lead to the identification of these suspects.”

In highlighting these thefts to the public, RCMP say it is important to be aware of some common tactics used by thieves and some safety tips.

Common tactics:

• Thieves approach a victim asking for a favour or assistance, sometimes involving directions or prayers, or they may approach a victim and overwhelm them with compliments. The thieves then offer a piece of jewelry as a gift or offering, while discreetly removing the victim’s real jewelry and swapping it for a cheap imitation.
• A stranger compliments a victim’s jewelry. They may offer something they claim is a more valuable piece of jewelry in exchange for the real one. The swapped jewelry is later discovered to be worthless.

How to stay safe:

• Remain vigilant at all times – even when simply going for a walk.
• Be cautious of strangers in your personal space or attempting to hug or touch you
• Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to say no or yell for help if you feel uncomfortable.
• Walk away from any suspicious person or behaviour.

For additional information see this link to BCRCMP’s website.

“Behind every incident police are investigating is a person who may have been impacted,” said Hirst. “We engage victims who may have been impacted by crime or trauma to Victim Services. This program is offered free of charge and is available 24 hours a day.”

If you or someone you know has been impacted by a distraction theft, or any other crime in Burnaby, contact Victim Services program at 604-646-9700.

Also, if you have any information on any of the recent distraction thefts, or you have been a victim and have not previously reported this to the Burnaby RCMP, call them at 604-646-9999.