A Winnipeg police vehicle is photographed at a scene in Winnipeg, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski)
Winnipeg police are warning the public about a series of increasingly aggressive distraction thefts in the city’s south end, often targeting elderly victims wearing gold jewelry.
Police say suspects typically drive dark SUVs, sometimes with out-of-province plates, and use tactics such as fake blessings, hugs, or close contact to steal rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Three recent incidents were reported between September 18 and 27 on Drake Boulevard, Bridgeland Drive South, and John Bruce Road. In each case, suspects replaced stolen jewelry with counterfeit items.
Police believe the thieves are part of a travelling crime group that uses motels on the city’s outskirts as a base while committing thefts locally. Victims are often chosen because they may not speak English fluently.
Investigators urge anyone approached in similar circumstances to report the encounter, even if nothing was stolen, and to provide descriptions, vehicle details, or security footage to assist the investigation.
Tips can be submitted to Winnipeg police at (204) 986-6219 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (204) 786-TIPS.
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