Fake police officers scam money from unsuspecting tourists in Vancouver

[CougarKing]

Perhaps this might or might not be related to the discovery of missing CBSA uniforms from a couple of months ago, in that someone who has access to the uniform supply in different agencies may be selling them to criminals?

CBC

Phoney cops scam money from tourists in Vancouver
CBC – 12 hours ago

Vancouver police are warning visitors to be vigilant after a handful of incidents in which people dressed up like police officers stop tourists, demand to see their passports and wallets, and make off with their cash.

The Vancouver Police Department said six incidents have been reported over the past two days. Police said the phoney officers, who seem to be targeting Asian tourists, even flash fake badges.

"After a few minutes, the passports and wallets were returned to the victims, but their money was missing," the VPD said in a written statement.

All six incidents have taken place in downtown Vancouver in the area near Waterfront Station, police said.

Real police officers should be able to produce police photo identification when requested.
The department is asking anyone with information about the thefts to call 911.

(...EDITED)

 

[CougarKing]

End of the story?

Vancity Buzz

THREE MEN ARRESTED FOR PLAYING PHONY POLICE OFFICERS TO SCAM ASIAN TOURISTS OF THEIR MONEY

Vancouver Police have arrested three men for allegedly disguising themselves as phony police officers to steal money from Asian tourists.

There have been 13 incidents since September 17, with two men identifying themselves as police officers and showing tourists a fake badge. An Asian man also played along with the two fake officers by posing as a ‘victim’ and encouraged the tourists to hand over their wallets and passports.

(...EDITED)