West Shore RCMP is warning residents that jewelry bought on the street could be a scam after two reports of fraud within days of each other.
On Feb. 3, a pedestrian near Massie Close in Langford was flagged down by a man driving a grey Mercedes SUV with a female passenger, RCMP said in a news release.
The man said he’d lost his wallet and asked for gas money to get home to Chilliwack, offering a gold ring and necklace in exchange.
The pedestrian agreed and later discovered the jewelry was not gold.
Two days later, a citizen told police they were walking in the 1700-block of Old Island Highway when they were approached by a man and woman travelling in a vehicle with two youths in the back seat. The couple said they were hungry and could not afford to eat. The citizen gave them money for food and they offered a gold necklace in exchange. The necklace turned out to be fake.
READ ALSO: Langford jeweller warns of rise in selling scam after dozens duped
“We want to warn the public against this type of fraud which often involves drawing the victim in with a sad or tragic story. It’s OK to say no and report suspicious activity to police right away. Make note of things like licence plates and suspect descriptions to give police the best chance of catching these suspects,” media relations officer Cpl. Nancy Saggar said.
The individuals are described as a Middle Eastern man about 5’6” and in his late 30s as well as a Middle Eastern woman.
The vehicle is described as dark brown with four doors.
Anyone with information is asked to call West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264.
Learn more about how to avoid being scammed through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.