RCMP warn of jewelry scam along provincial roads

ALBERTA -- The RCMP are advising the public about a jewelry scam taking place along provincial highways.

According to the RCMP, the scam is perpetrated by a middle-aged man -- sometimes accompanied by a female passenger and children -- who attempts to solicit money from passing drivers in exchange for fake jewelry. In some cases, the man presents as a stranded motorist who tells passing drivers that he needs money in order to reach another province.

RCMP Corporal Guillaume Lamoureux is advising anyone who experiences a similar situation to contact police.

"What we'd like to mention to the public is that if a stranger is asking for money in exchange for jewelry -- or any other goods -- please be mindful of the current scam," said Cpl. Lamoureux. "Walk away and call the police. Jewelry and gold should only be purchased from a reputable dealer." 

Cpl. Lamoureux adds that the scams have been reported across the entire Central Alberta region. This comes after residents near Rimbey reported online that they experienced a similar situation with a man operating out of a white vehicle a few weeks ago. Lamoureux confirmed to the One FM that that particular individual is involved, but didn't rule out that other people could be involved in the scam as well.

"There's different vehicles that were reported with different license plates," said Cpl. Lamoureux. "We're aware of the white vehicle, but there's also other vehicles involved. We're not sure if they're all related."

The Mounties note that the scammers look legitimate and trustworthy, which makes it important to be vigilant.