N.B. RCMP warns of potential parking lot jewelry scam

RCMP vehicles are pictured. (Callum Smith/CTV News Atlantic)

The Grand Bay-Westfield, N.B., RCMP is warning the public about a suspected scam in the region.

Officers received a report of a suspicious interaction in a parking lot on River Valley Drive.

“A man approached an individual and attempted to sell what he claimed was a gold ring,” reads an RCMP news release from Friday.

“The man provided an emotional story in an effort to persuade the individual to purchase the jewelry.”

No money was exchanged and the individual left the area in a light-coloured vehicle.

“Residents should be wary of unsolicited offers involving jewelry or other valuables, particularly when the seller claims to be in distress or urgently needs money,” says Sgt. Ben Comley in the release. “If an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.”

Police say similar incidents may have occurred throughout the province. In one reported incident, a man and woman approached a man in a Saint John parking lot and attempted to sell him a ring.

Police say they then stole the man’s necklace.

In another instance, A man in a white Jeep Cherokee allegedly approached individuals in a Sussex parking lot and tried to sell a gold chain, claiming he needed the money for fuel.

Police say anyone who has experienced or witnessed a similar incident or has information on the occurrences to contact the Grand Bay-Westfield RCMP at 506-757-1020. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.

For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.