Search KelownaNow
(Photo Credit: Vancouver Police Department Facebook)
Fake police officers are duping unwary travellers in Vancouver.
The Vancouver Police is warning travellers after a number of Asian tourists have been stolen from by fake officers. Within the last couple of days, six incidents have been reported of two men posing as police officers and showing tourists fake badges.
These men are demanding to see tourists' wallets and passports. After investigating the victims' items for a few minutes, the fake cops have returned the wallets and passports—but not exactly intact. After the investigation by the “officers”, the victims are finding their money missing from their wallets.
Apparently all of the reported incidents took place in the waterfront area of downtown Vancouver.
The Vancouver Police Department has a couple tips to identify real officers. First, all officers are required to show photo police identification when requested. Second, if anyone is in doubt about the officer's identity, they may call 9-1-1. The operator can validate the officer's status.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.