Richmond RCMP is trying to find two potential witnesses who may have information on an alleged attempted kidnapping in Richmond City Centre earlier this week.
RCMP officers responded to a report of an attempted kidnapping around 4:15 p.m. on Monday, April 28.
The victim said she was at a local sports facility in the 4300 block of No. 3 Road, between Browngate and Leslie roads, when she was approached by three men.
One of the men was allegedly wearing an item marked with "police" and carrying a portable radio, according to the victim.
The victim reported there was a struggle, but she was able to break free. The suspects then left the area in a black Jeep Cherokee with an Alberta licence plate.
Richmond RCMP found the vehicle on fire later that day, around 10 p.m., in the 13000 block of Vulcan Way, between Sweden and Viking ways, in Bridgeport.
Police said the incident appears to be targeted based on the evidence gathered to date.
Anyone who was in the No. 3 Road area, between Leslie and Browngate roads from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. or on Vulcan Way, between Viking and Sweden ways, from 4 to 6 p.m., as well as between 9:30 and 10:30 p.m., is being asked to come forward.
“We know there were people walking past the area at the time the alleged attempted kidnapping took place," said Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, media relations officer with the Richmond RCMP.
"Our investigators are hoping to identify and speak with two particular witnesses, which is why we are releasing their photographs."
The first witness is described as an Asian wearing a black jacket, blue shirt, white pants and white running shoes. They were carrying a black and white umbrella.
The second witness was wearing a grey jacket, grey pants, white running shoes and black glasses and was carrying a pink purse.
Insp. Michael Cohee, officer in charge of Richmond RCMP's investigative services, said RCMP is aware of information circulating on social media about the investigation.
“We recognize the alarming nature of this incident and want to assure the public our investigators are working diligently to identify the individuals involved,” said Cohee. He added police recognize the concerns from the public regarding "one of the suspects alluded to being a police officer."
“If you are ever approached by someone indicating they are a plainclothes police officer, it is okay to ask for identification to verify their claims.”
This is an active and ongoing investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed or have information regarding this incident, is asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote file number 2025-13199 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.
📣 Got an opinion on this story or any others in Richmond? Send us a letter or email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected].
📲 To stay updated on Richmond news, sign up for our daily headline newsletter.
💬 Words missing in article? Your adblocker might be preventing hyperlinked text from appearing.
