Winnipeg Police are warning residents to be vigilant after two different buyers replied to a classified online ad for a cell phone and were robbed.
According to investigators the victims went to a home in the St. Matthews neighbourhood to purchase the phone but when they arrived they were confronted by two men armed with a gun and robbed of their money. The suspects fled after the robbery. No injuries were by either victim.
The suspects are described as adult males with dark skin.
No arrests have been made and the investigation continues.
Police advise people residents that there are a number of things they can do to reduce this kind f incident when responding to online classified ads such as:
- There are Buy and Sell Exchange Zones located at each of the four Winnipeg Police Service Stations
- Complete your transaction during daylight hours and in a public space.
- Do not meet someone alone.
- Ask for a photo of the serial number before meeting and attempt to confirm the item hasn’t been reported stolen.
- Don’t provide your personal information to anyone.
- Take screenshots of the advertisement and ID number, the seller’s contact information and all communications.
- Know who you are dealing with. Check the buyer’s/seller’s name through an online search engine.
- Take only enough cash to pay for the item you are purchasing.
- Ask about the history of the item being sold.
- Do not provide payment until you receive the item.
- Do not give out your personal or banking information.
- Use generic photos when posting an item for sale.
- Trust your instincts! If something feels wrong, it probably is.
- Want to know if the item you plan to buy has been reported stolen? The Canadian Police Information Centre provides an online resource you can use to search serial numbers to find out. Searches on property, vehicles, bikes, boats and firearms can be done.
