The Richmond RCMP is warning residents about a bike-riding thief, connected to a series of robberies across the city.
Three of the robberies – where a male suspect on a bike snatched a cell phone, purse or satchel from victims, who were walking – took place between July 3 and July 9 in the downtown corridor of Richmond. The incidents occurred in the afternoon and evening hours.
The RCMP is also investigating two other, apparently connected, robberies, and one attempted robbery, that occurred between June 30 and July 5.
In these cases, the suspect targeted victims who had withdrawn funds from ATM machines.
These crimes took place in the afternoon or early evening hours near the TD Canada Trust at 8500 No. 3 Road north of Francis Road; near the RBC at 10111 No. 3 Road near Williams Road; and near the CIBC Bank at 8751 No. 1 Road near Francis Road.
In each of the aforementioned cases, the suspect is described as a heavy-set Caucasian male in his late 20s to early 30s, with short, dark hair and six feet tall.
“We have several teams of officers from our General Investigation Section working these cases,” said Cpl. Dennis Hwang of the Richmond RCMP.
“We would like to remind the community to be especially vigilant and pay close attention to your surroundings.
“If walking alone, do periodic checks around you and keep your attention focused. If you are carrying a purse or satchel, placing it central to your body makes it harder to dislodge from your shoulder.
“When departing any financial institution, currency exchange, or ATM, be cautious and secure any withdrawals out of sight prior (to) departing.”
In the attempted robbery, added Cpl. Hwang, the victim thwarted the suspect by screaming and making a lot of commotion, which alerted bystanders.
If you have any information about any of these crimes, the RCMP asks that you contact their General Investigation Section at 604-278-1212 or by email at Richmond_Tips@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
