EPS continues to crack down on Facebook Marketplace iPhone robberies, with 2 more arrests

Facebook Marketplace is shown in the Facebook app on a phone in Toronto on Monday, July 13, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jesse Johnston

Posted June 18, 2026 1:04 pm.

Edmonton police say two boys have been charged in connection with a string of Facebook Marketplace robberies earlier this year.

The Edmonton Police Service says seven reported thefts happened in the Richfield and Millbourne areas between early April and mid-May.

Police say in each case, a suspect posed as a buyer looking to purchase an iPhone that was advertised on Facebook’s online reselling platform.

“They evaluated the item(s) for sale and then robbed the seller of the item, often using bear spray, uttering threats or presenting a knife,” EPS said in a news release, adding the suspects reportedly fled on foot.

On June 11, Edmonton police arrested two youths who face a combined seven charges, including robbery, breach of probation and assault with a weapon.

Edmonton police say they have now arrested seven people in connection with 26 reports of stolen iPhones, all following a posting on Facebook Marketplace.

Investigators say the crimes are being committed by multiple people across the city, and are not always connected.

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