News release

North Van RCMP sounds the alarm on rising distraction theft scams

February 9, 2026 - North Vancouver, British Columbia
From: North Vancouver RCMP

Content

North Vancouver RCMP is warning residents about a recent resurgence of distraction thefts in the community.

On February 6 and 7, 2026, North Vancouver RCMP received three similar reports. In all three cases, elderly victims were approached by two females and a male driving a grey SUV who asked for directions before stealing their jewelry. There have been six total reports made since September 2025. 

The scam involves engaging the victim in a conversation, with the suspect then attempting to hug or touch the victim’s hand or wrist. This is done to remove jewelry the victim is wearing and replace it with fake jewelry.

“Our investigators are working hard to identify the suspects,” said Corporal Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for the North Vancouver RCMP. “Victims have not only lost property, but family heirlooms that have significant memories attached to them.” 

In highlighting theses thefts to the public, it is important to be aware of some common tactics used by thieves and some safety tips.

Common tactics: 

• Thieves approach a victim asking for a favour or assistance, sometimes involving directions or prayers, or they may approach a victim and overwhelm them with compliments. The thieves then offer a piece of jewelry as a gift or offering, while discreetly removing the victim’s real jewelry and swapping it for a cheap imitation.
• A stranger compliments a victim’s jewelry. They may offer something they claim is a more valuable piece of jewelry in exchange for the real one. The swapped jewelry is later discovered to be worthless. 

How to stay safe: 

• Remain vigilant at all times
• Be cautious of strangers in your personal space or attempting to hug or touch you
• Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to say no or yell for help if you feel uncomfortable.
• Walk away from any suspicious person or behaviour. 

“Behind every incident police are investigating is a person who may have been impacted,” explained Corporal Sahak. “We engage victims who may have been impacted by crime or trauma to Victim Services. This program is offered free of charge and is available to all North Vancouver residents.” 

If you or someone you know has been impacted by a distraction theft, or any other crime in North Vancouver, contact our Victim Services Unit at 604-969-7540. If you have any information on any of the recent distraction thefts, or you have been a victim and have not previously reported this to the North Vancouver RCMP, please call us at 604-985-1311.

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