Distraction thefts – Awareness and tips

RCMP is advising the community to be aware of this type of crime - thefts whereby a form of distraction is used on the victim.

Thieves have been targeting people leaving various financial institutions after making cash withdrawals. Travellers leaving or arriving from YVR have also been targeted.

Purse getting pickpocketed

The thieves have utilized several methods to distract their victims. This includes:

The thieves often appear non-threatening, act helpful, and may even be with a small child or a baby.

Safety tips

How to protect yourself

If you have been the victim of a distraction theft, call 9-1-1 immediately. If you wait, the chances of finding the suspects decrease significantly.

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