News release

Wood Buffalo RCMP launch local Financial Crime Unit

March 31, 2026 - Fort McMurray, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Fort McMurray, Alta. – On Apr. 1, 2026, Wood Buffalo RCMP are launching a new unit as part of the Detachment’s commitment to crime reduction. Inspector Troy Switzer, acting Officer-in-Charge, is pleased to announce the addition of a specialized Financial Crime Unit within the General Investigation Section. Given all the effects that financial crime has on both the local economy and the individual citizen, the new unit will focus policing efforts to better address ongoing challenges. Over the past several years, there has been increase in the sophistication of cyber-enabled financial crime, which can include cross-jurisdictional and transnational crime networks. These are impacting local communities traditionally thought of as remote. 

Inspector Switzer says:  “Our goal is to reduce the harm and impact of financial crimes in Wood Buffalo by interdicting and increasing charges against these faceless cyber fraudsters taking advantage of the average hardworking Albertan”. Wood Buffalo RCMP encourage anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud or financial crime to report it to police. 

The Canadian Anti- Fraud Center offers information on what to do if you’re a victim of fraud. This includes:

Gather all information about the fraud including documents, receipts, copies of emails and / or text messages

Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money

Tell family, friends, neighbours and co-workers about your experience. You may prevent someone else from becoming a victim. 

If you are unsure of whether or not you are being targeted by a scam, visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn about common scam types. If you have been the victim of fraud, report it to the Wood Buffalo RCMP at (780) 788‐4000 or 310-RCMP (7267) and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca, or by calling 1-888-495-8501. Be sure to contact your bank and credit card company if you believe your personal or financial information has been compromised.

For more fraud prevention tips follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.

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