Richmond RCMP is warning of thieves working together to distract and steal from people entering or leaving financial institutions to withdraw cash.
The technique involves one suspect flagging the target down as they drive away and claiming the target’s vehicle is “damaged in some way and/or making an unusual noise,” according to Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dennis Hwang.
An accomplice would then remove the victim’s purse as the victim gets out to inspect their vehicle.
Police decided to warn the community as although it’s not a new technique, it has recently been used in the community.
“If you believe that you a potential target in this type of distraction scheme and it is occurring in real-time, contact the police immediately and/or drive in a safe manner directly to your local police detachment,” said Hwang.
