Edson RCMP warn of fake police scam

The RCMP in Edson is warning the public of a new scam involving a group of people who are impersonating police officers.

Mounties say in the most recent case, the victim from Edson was called by a number listed as RCMP.

“When they answered the phone, the person on the other end of the line stated they were calling from the RCMP and that the victim was going to be arrested due to some outstanding ‘money laundering’ scheme,” said RCMP in a statement.

“At the same time, two people dressed as police officers, knocked on the door asking if the victim had gotten a call. The two suspects confirmed that the victim would be arrested unless they pay a fee.”

Following this, the victim was told to empty their account and purchase gift cards, before providing information to the caller.

The caller then indicated the money would be returned if it was proven that they were not part of an ongoing investigation.

RCMP are urging the public to be wary of potential scams, noting the following:

• At no time will an RCMP officer request a fee, gift cards, or otherwise money in exchange of forgoing an arrest.
• If an arrest warrant is issued, the warrant will be executed as specified on the warrant. If a warrant to search a home or seize an account is granted, the warrant will be executed as specified and you are entitled to read the warrant.
• If ever you are in the presence of someone stating they are a police officer and you have doubts, you are allowed to ask for identification. Furthermore, you may call 911 or your local detachment or dispatch number to confirm that the officers before you are who they say they are. 

Mounties are asking if anyone was in the area of 4^th Avenue, 63^rd Street, and 56^th Street in Edson, on Nov. 3, 2023, between the hours of 10-11 a.m., and may have seen something involving the incident to contact investigators at 780-723-8822, your local police, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.