Winnipeg police have arrested one man and are searching for another in connection with a series of fake jewellery scams and distraction thefts believed to be linked to a travelling criminal organization.
On June 26, a man was approached in a parking lot in the 1400 block of Regent Avenue West by a suspect offering fake gold jewellery. The suspect, who had a child with him, claimed he needed money to travel. The victim later discovered the jewellery was counterfeit and contacted police.
Officers identified 36-year-old Catalin Feraru as a suspect. He was arrested on August 4 at a home in Portage la Prairie. Feraru is charged with conspiracy to commit an indictable offence and fraud over $5,000. He remains in custody.
Meanwhile, police are searching for 31-year-old Ionut-Vasile Bivolaru in connection with a separate incident on August 1.
A 29-year-old man was walking his dog near the 500 block of Toronto Street when he was approached by a suspect offering costume jewellery and a gift. The suspect allegedly used a distraction technique to steal the man’s gold chain, replacing it with a fake. When confronted, the suspect fled in a vehicle, causing the victim to fall and suffer minor injuries.
A warrant has been issued for Bivolaru’s arrest. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at (204) 986-6219 or Crime Stoppers at (204) 786-TIPS.
Suspect arrested for selling fake jewelry, second suspect wanted in connection with jewelry robbery. https://t.co/DmckitL3p3 pic.twitter.com/EmVUjGdd0G
— Winnipeg Police (@wpgpolice) August 6, 2025
