Online sellers advised to use caution amid string of robberies

Three teens have been charged in connection with a robbery during an online marketplace exchange, but Edmonton police are warning the public about other robberies across the city, including one incident involving a firearm.

Fifteen robberies during Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace meetups have been reported in the last month, according to Edmonton Police Service (EPS).

All involved higher-priced items like cell phones and brand name clothing.

“In each case, a suspect posing as a buyer meets up with the seller, evaluates the item(s) for sale, then is joined by at least one accomplice. Together, the suspects rob the seller of the item, sometimes uttering threats, and in one case, reportedly presenting a firearm,” EPS said in a warning to the public.

The trio of boys were arrested at the end of January in connection with one of the earliest robberies and charged with theft under $5,000.

“We always advise caution when meeting up with strangers,” added Staff Sgt. Ivan Dascavich, with the EPS Investigative Response Team. “Meet in a safe, public location, such as the EPS Buy and Sell Exchange Zones, bring a friend, and above all, trust your instincts. If something feels off at any point, abandon the sale.”