Calgary police warn unsuspecting buyers after dozens of cell phones swiped from warehouse

Calgary — The Calgary Police Service is encouraging those in the market for a new cell phone to ensure they're not unwittingly buying a stolen device that can't be activated.

According to police, 192 phones were stolen from a northeast warehouse in late August, valued at an estimated $150,000.

"We believe these devices will likely end up for sale online and urge Calgarians to do their due diligence before purchasing a cell phone online," said Staff Sgt. Mark England.

The stolen phones include the following makes and models:

CPS officials says the stolen phones cannot be activated on a cell phone provider and can only access data via WiFi.

To reduce the risk of purchasing a stolen phone, police recommend meeting the seller at a mobile retailer where the serial number or IMEI can be verified

"We’re asking anyone who finds they have purchased a stolen phone after Aug. 21 to report the incident to police," added England. "We want to stop the cycle of phones being stolen and resold."

Anyone who encounters a suspected stolen phone is asked to contact the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234 or anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers.