ON February 21, Richmond RCMP arrested a man who was allegedly purchasing vehicles using fraudulent bank drafts.

Richmond RCMP were investigating a complaint about a stolen vehicle at an automotive business in central Richmond. During the course of this investigation a suspect, not associated to the dealership, was identified and arrested, resulting in the recovery of three vehicles that had been fraudulently obtained.

Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit (ECU) have since identified five additional vehicles connected to this alleged fraud series. The first report was received January 21 and the most recent report is from February 26. The vehicles range in value from $ 33,000 to $ 87,000 with a combined value of $ 443,688.

“We are issuing this public warning as we believe there may be additional victims who are not yet aware that their vehicle was purchased using a potential fraudulent bank draft,” said Cpl. Melissa Lui, Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit. “If you are a victim we ask that you contact your police of jurisdiction. We are also asking anyone who may have information about these investigations to come forward.”

Some ways to protect yourself against this type of fraud include:

* Confirming the authenticity of the bank draft by contacting the issuing financial institution before completing the transaction
* Meeting the buyer at a legitimate financial institution and observe the bank draft being ordered
* Ensuring the draft has cleared and has been confirmed prior to releasing the item to the buyer.

The man was released from custody on a police undertaking.

Richmond RCMP ECU, part of the Richmond RCMP Organized Crime Unit, have conduct of this investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who may have information regarding this investigation is asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.