Two suspects were arrested as part of an ongoing fake gold investigation in Richmond.
A stash of fake gold jewelry and other items was seized as part of a fraudulent gold transaction that occurred in Richmond earlier this month, according to the Richmond RCMP.
An individual was approached by a man and woman who tried to sell him gold for cash in the 5500-block of Garden City Road on Mar. 19.
The person suspected the gold to be fake and declined the two people and called the police.
On Mar. 22, police arrested two suspects and executed search warrants that showed evidence they were part of “a sophisticated” gold fraud operation.
“We are very pleased to have made such significant progress on our investigation so quickly,” said Cpl. Ian Henderson, media spokesperson with the Richmond RCMP, adding investigation involved different police units.
“More information will be forthcoming once charges have been approved.”
Richmond RCMP said fake gold jewelry is a problem across Canada and not just in B.C.
Police forces are warning the public to be wary of people approaching them with gold jewelry offers for cash while on the streets, reads an RCMP statement.
It added that gold fraudsters typically target people who appear approachable and then “play on their emotions” such as telling stories of needing money to get home.
“Their stories are bogus and so is their gold,” said Henderson.
“If you are approached, say ‘no thank you,’ get to a safe location, and call police.”
If you have information on similar suspicious activity, call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
