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Richmond RCMP has expanded its operational hours of its Safe Exchange Zone located at the main detachment lobby on 11411 No. 5 Road.

Photo courtesy Richmond RCMP

Expansion of Safe Exchange hours amid rise in online marketplace incidents

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 4:40 PST, Wed November 6, 2024

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In response to an increase in reported incidents involving theft and fraud during in-person online marketplace transactions, Richmond RCMP is expanding the operational hours of its Safe Exchange Zone. Located at the main detachment lobby (11411 No. 5 Road), this space now offers extended hours to facilitate safer exchanges, monitored by CCTV for added security.

New Safe Exchange Zone is now open:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday, and statutory holidays: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Richmond RCMP established the Safe Exchange Zone to provide a secure environment for the community to conduct online transactions, such as buying or selling goods from platforms like Facebook Marketplace. With CCTV monitoring and a public location, this initiative aims to reduce the risk of theft, fraud, and confrontations that can occur in unregulated meeting spots.

Increase in criminal incidents

Richmond RCMP’s crime analysis shows a notable 67 per cent rise in online transaction-related fraud and robbery incidents related to the physical exchange of items, where perpetrators have sometimes used weapons such as bear spray or knives.

Recent incidents

To raise public awareness, Richmond RCMP highlights four recent cases linked to online marketplace exchanges:

September 15, 2024: A male suspect allegedly robbed a victim of $2,000 in clothing after arranging a sale through Facebook Marketplace. The suspect reportedly threatened the victim with bear spray before fleeing.
September 22, 2024: A buyer, reportedly feigning injury, sent an accomplice to a meet-up, where the suspect is alleged to have stolen a box of high-value Pokémon cards before the transaction could be completed.
October 14, 2024: Another incident involved a young suspect allegedly fleeing with a phone after a meet-up in a secondary school parking lot.
October 29, 2024: Officers responded to a report of robbery in-progress following an attempted sale of a hoodie with an unknown male arranged through Facebook Marketplace, conducted at a secondary school parking lot. Richmond RCMP located a potential suspect nearby matching the description provided, who was found in breach of prior conditions. The suspect was arrested and held pending bail hearing.

These cases highlight the inherent risks associated with peer-to-peer transactions, highlighting the importance of safe, monitored, public spaces for such exchanges.

Supporting community safety

“Expanding the Safe Exchange Zone is part of Richmond RCMP’s commitment to community safety and crime prevention,” says Chief Superintendent Dave Chauhan, officer-in-charge of Richmond RCMP. “We strongly encourage Richmond residents to utilize this space for all online marketplace transactions, reducing the need for police intervention and protecting our community members from potential harm.”

Precautionary tips for buyers and sellers

Richmond RCMP recommends the following safety tips for Richmond residents meeting in person for an online transaction:

Use a safe exchange zone. Whenever possible, conduct transactions at a Safe Exchange Zone or another well-lit, public place with CCTV coverage.
Meet in daylight or during early hours. Avoid evening or late-night transactions. Daylight provides better visibility and may lower risks.
Bring a companion. If feasible, bring a friend or family member along to the meet-up.
Avoid revealing personal information. Limit what you share about your residence or daily routine to prevent future safety concerns.
Inspect items and confirm details in advance. Ensure all transaction details, including price and condition, are clear before the meet-up to avoid disputes.
Stay alert to your surroundings. Be cautious and aware of people or vehicles in the vicinity during the transaction.

These precautionary measures can help protect both buyers and sellers, creating a safer environment for online marketplace exchanges in Richmond.