Ottawa police arrest 3 in connection with counterfeit cash used in online sales

Ottawa Police sign outside headquarters on Elgin St. in Ottawa. (CTV News Ottawa)

The Ottawa Police Service says three people have been arrested in connection with several reports of people buying items from online sellers with counterfeit cash.

Police issued a warning in late May about a reported increase in reports of counterfeit bills being used in Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji transactions in the city.

“Scammers are purchasing high-value items like iPhones and computers using fake bills,” police said.

On Monday, Ottawa police said a search warrant was executed in the Parkwood Hills area in the city’s west end on Saturday, resulting in three arrests.

Charges include possession of counterfeit money, fraud-related offences under $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, and failing to comply with a release order, police said. More charges could be laid.

The accused are all Ottawa residents between 18 and 29 years old.

“As part of the investigation, officers seized thousands of dollars in counterfeit currency believed to be connected to fraudulent online transactions. Officers also seized legitimate currency believed to be proceeds of crime,” police said in a news release.

Officers also seized “a quantity of stolen property” and approximately 1.5 kg of cannabis.

An investigation remains ongoing.

“The Ottawa Police Service would like to thank the Ontario Provincial Police for their assistance in this investigation, including support related to a stolen e-bike believed to be connected to a fraudulent online transaction in Kemptville,” police said.

Earlier this month, the OPP said a teenager in Kemptville was given counterfeit cash while selling an e-bike online.

The Ottawa Police Service says residents should exercise caution when buying or selling items online. When conducting in-person transactions:

• Use safe trade zones
• Meet in well-lit, public locations
• Be cautious of cash transactions involving large sums
• Verify banknotes where possible, or request an eTransfer

You can find details about how to spot counterfeit bills at the Bank of Canada’s website.

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