Police are asking potential victims who suspect their vehicles were purchased using a fraudulent bank draft to come forward.
Richmond RCMP announced Wednesday that a man was arrested on Feb. 21 in connection with a fraud series involving at least eight vehicles with a combined value of $443,688. The value of the vehicles ranged from $33,000 to $87,000.
The man was identified and arrested during an investigation into a complaint about a stolen vehicle at an automotive business in central Richmond, according to Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Adriana O'Malley.
He was not associated with the dealership and three fraudulently obtained vehicles were recovered in the process.
Since the arrest, five additional vehicles connected to the alleged fraud series were identified by the Richmond RCMP Economic Crime Unit.
The man was later released on a police undertaking.
The first report in connection with the alleged fraud series was received on Jan. 21 and the most recent report was from Feb. 26.
"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."
The investigation is active and ongoing and is conducted by the Richmond RCMP's Economic Crime Unit.
Police have offered some tips to community members for protecting themselves against similar types of fraud:
- Confirm the authenticity of the bank draft by contacting the issuing financial institution before completing the transaction.
- Meet the buyer at a legitimate financial institution and observe the bank draft being ordered.
- Ensure the draft is cleared and confirmed before releasing the item to the buyer.
Anyone who may have information regarding this investigation should call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit them online at www.solvecrime.ca.
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