A surge in distraction thefts is alarming Winnipeg police, who are investigating a series of robberies in the city’s southern areas. Perpetrators are using tactics like fake jewelry and physical contact to distract and steal from victims, even targeting residential neighborhoods, a concerning trend according to Const. Claude Chancy.
Recent incidents include a theft on Drake Boulevard in St. Boniface, where a thief posing as a well-wisher placed fake jewelry on a victim before snatching earrings and a necklace. Similar encounters occurred on Bridgeland Drive S. in Bridgwater and John Bruce Road in Royalwood, with thieves adept at identifying valuable jewelry and using distraction techniques.
The suspects, believed to be South Asian, targeted elderly victims wearing gold jewelry who may not speak English fluently. Police suspect the involvement of multiple individuals working in groups, often using rental vehicles with out-of-province plates and staying in rural area hotels. Victims are often unaware of the theft until discovering their missing valuables, like wedding rings.
Police urge the public to report any suspicious interactions and provide detailed descriptions of individuals involved. Security footage or eyewitness accounts of similar incidents are encouraged to be shared with the major crimes unit or anonymously through Crime Stoppers. Vigilance and prompt reporting are crucial in combating these thefts.
