Police issue warning regarding online sales following thefts

sign outside edmonton police hq — Edmonton police headquarters. (Credit: CityNews/Rod Maldaner)

By Cole Fortner

Posted May 13, 2024 4:03 pm.

Edmonton police are reminding the public to use caution when it comes to online purchases and sales.

The latest memo comes after a string of recent robberies.

EPS says throughout March and April, officers have responded to six separate buy-and-sell exchange robberies within the city.

“In each case, the seller agrees to meet the proposed buyer at the seller’s residence during the hours of 8 p.m. and midnight. One or two males then arrive at the seller’s residence with pepper spray, then snatch the item being offered for sale and flee,” said EPS in a statement.

“In some cases, the suspects have actually sprayed the seller with the pepper spray, while in others, the pepper spray is only threatened. In one instance, the suspects reportedly displayed a gun while committing the robbery. Typically, the items being offered for sale are cell phones.”

Police says they have been able to identify several suspects believed to be linked to the investigation.

EPS are also reminding Edmontonians that four locations have been setup to allow for safe areas for buying and selling items online. Those locations are as follows:

Northeast Division Station: 14203 50 Street
Southeast Division Station: 104 Youville Drive East
Southwest Division Station: 1351 Windermere Way SW
West Division Station:16505 100 Avenue NW

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