A new initiative will allow community members to complete online transactions in a secure space - at a police station - starting this weekend.
People who need to meet up and exchange goods and payments will now be able to do so in the lobby area at Richmond RCMP's No. 5 Road detachment, also known as the Safe Exchange Zone.
The area is only available on weekends and on statutory holidays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is equipped with clear signage and CCTV coverage.
The initiative was introduced in response to a recent increase in criminal offences related to online sales, such as theft and fraud during in-person meet-ups, said Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dennis Hwang.
Police recently announced they were investigating two incidents involving the theft of "high-dollar items" using the sleight-of-hand technique. According to police, the buyer allegedly switched out an envelope of cash with one containing paper while meeting up with a seller from Facebook Marketplace.
Stolen items include Dior and Chanel designer bags and Sony digital cameras.
“This initiative draws inspiration from successful similar programs across the country and is expected to significantly reduce the need for police intervention, allowing RCMP members to focus more on proactive crime reduction activities,” said Richmond RCMP officer in charge, Chief Supt. Dave Chauhan.
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