POLICE – Victim of parking lot scam talked into trading real gold for fake

 Shoppers are being warned to beware of parking lot scams that could relieve them of their gold.

According to a report, on March 13, 2025, around 2:30 p.m., a woman was returning to her vehicle after shopping on the 900-block of Columbia Street West, when she was approached by a man in his 30s and a teenage girl wearing a Hijab.

During the interaction, the victim was convinced to trade her real gold necklace for two that were fake. The suspects were in a dark four-door sedan with an Ontario license plate.

“Unfortunately, it is not the first time Kamloops police have received reports involving this kind of scam,” said RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn.

“Similar scams pop up from time to time, usually involving people selling or trading fake gold in parking lots and presenting it as authentic.”

In late February, Kamloops police received a suspicious occurrence report involving someone believed to be selling fake gold in a parking lot on the Halston Avenue. Similar incidents were also documented locally in November and periodically throughout the year.

“It can be easier than you think to get taken advantage of, especially when you’re busy with other things, such as returning to your vehicle after shopping,” added Cpl. Evelyn.

“Thieves take advantage of the fact that you may be distracted, and they are often skilled at creating stress, confusion, and a sense of urgency in order to take advantage of people.”

Along with seeking more information related to this scam, police are also hoping to help prevent other people from being victimized.

Prevention tips:

• Scammers often use desperation, urgency or emotional pleas to trick victims. Don’t impulsively exchange money for items from strangers.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
• Feel free to walk away.
• Report suspicious activity. If you encounter a similar situation, report it to the police immediately.

For more fraud prevention tips, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Anyone with information related to the March 13, 2025, jewelry scam is asked to please contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2025-7121.