RICHMOND RCMP are warning the community of two types of robberies that are currently under investigation.

The first type involves a male suspect on a bike snatching a cell phone, a purse or a satchel from victims who were walking in the downtown corridor of Richmond . Three such robberies have occurred between July 3 and 9. They took place during the afternoon or evening hours.

The Richmond RCMP are also investigating two robberies and one attempted robbery where a suspect targeted victims who recently withdrew funds from ATM machines.

These occurred in the afternoon or early evening hours between June 30 and July 5 near the TD Canada Trust at 8500 No. 3 Road, near the RBC at 10111 No. 3 Road, and near the CIBC Bank at 8751 No. 1 Road.

The suspect in these robberies is described as a white male in his late 20s or early 30s, heavyset and six feet tall with dark short hair

“We have several teams of officers from our General Investigation Section working these cases. We would like to remind the community to be especially vigilant and pay close attention to your surroundings,” said Cpl. Dennis Hwang on Monday. “If walking alone, do periodic checks around you and keep your attention focussed. If you are carrying a purse or satchel, placing it central to your body makes it harder to dislodge from your shoulder. When departing any financial institution, currency exchange or ATM, be cautious and secure any withdrawals out of sight prior departing. In one of the incidents, the attempted robbery was thwarted by screaming and making a lot of commotion which was overheard by bystanders.”

Police are asking anyone with potential information on these crimes to contact the Richmond RCMP General Investigation Section at 604-278-1212 or email at Richmond_Tips@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).