Suspect sought in designer handbag robbery linked to online sale in Langley: RCMP

Mounties were able to obtain CCTV video of the suspect and released photos in hopes someone may recognize him. (Langley RCMP)

Mounties in Langley are searching for a suspect after a designer handbag was allegedly stolen in a robbery linked to an online marketplace sale.

Langley RCMP said the victim had arranged to meet the prospective Facebook Marketplace buyer at a residential building in the 20000 block of 85 Avenue just before 6:30 p.m. on Monday.

The buyer initially viewed the handbag inside of the building, before convincing the victim to bring it outside so he could show it to a family member, according to police.

“Once outside, the suspect grabbed the bag from the victim’s hands, pushed her to the ground and ran to an idling vehicle parked on 86 Avenue, before fleeing the area,” Mounties said in a news release Tuesday.

RCMP were able to obtain CCTV video of the suspect and released photos in hopes someone may recognize him.

“We are asking anyone who recognizes this individual to contact police,” Sgt. Zynal Sharoom said in the release. “Incidents like this highlight the risks that can come with meeting strangers to complete online marketplace transactions.”

Mounties warned anyone buying or selling items online to take the proper precautions:

• Always set up exchanges in bright, busy public spaces;
• If you can, finalize sales at a police detachment or another place with cameras or security;
• Bring someone with you, especially when selling expensive items;
• Keep transactions outside of your home;
• Listen to your gut. If something feels off, call off the meeting

Anyone with information or who recognizes the suspect is asked to call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200 and quote file number 2026-7422.