VPD seeking witnesses following series of “blessing scams” targeting seniors
Indo-Canadian Voice VPD seeking witnesses following series of “blessing scams” targeting seniors posted by: Rattan MallVIDEO THE Vancouver Police Department is releasing CCTV footage and issuing a public warning following a series of “blessing scams” that have targeted elderly residents in the city, resulting in the theft of thousands of dollars in cash and valuables. Investigators have identified at least five separate incidents reported across Vancouver since late May. […] The post VPD seeking witnesses following series of “blessing scams” targeting seniors first appeared on Indo-Canadian Voice.Indo-Canadian Voice
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THE Vancouver Police Department is releasing CCTV footage and issuing a public warning following a series of “blessing scams” that have targeted elderly residents in the city, resulting in the theft of thousands of dollars in cash and valuables.
Investigators have identified at least five separate incidents reported across Vancouver since late May.
“These suspects prey on the vulnerability of our seniors, using fear, manipulation, and cultural beliefs to steal their life savings,” says Constable Darren Wong. “We are releasing this video in hopes that someone recognizes these suspects, and to remind everyone to speak with their elderly family members about these scams.”
The latest incident occurred on June 6 near Southwest Marine Drive and Yukon Street. CCTV footage captured an elderly woman being approached by two female suspects after leaving a grocery store. What appears to be a random encounter on camera is in fact a targeted strategy by the scammers.
The suspects engaged the woman in conversation, convincing her that a terrible misfortune or curse would soon befall her family. To ward off the bad luck, the suspects offered to perform a spiritual “blessing” on her valuables. She was escorted a few blocks away to meet a third suspect, who instructed her to go home and return with her valuables for the ritual.
The victim returned to the scene with over $15,000 in cash and a gold ring inside her purse. Through sleight of hand and distraction, the suspects secretly removed the money and jewelry from her bag without her knowledge. She only discovered the theft after returning home.
Blessing scam prevention tips include:
- Protect your space: Maintain physical boundaries. Do not let strangers approach you or enter your personal space, even if they seem friendly or are offering gifts
- Draw attention: If you feel you are being targeted, or feel unsafe, make noise, yell, and attract the attention of bystanders
- Keep your valuables: Do not give strangers money or valuables
- Tell somebody: Call 911 and report the crime to police immediately
