Public warned about 'troubling' rise in purse-snatching robberies in Richmond
There has been a "troubling" increase in reported purse-snatching robberies in Richmond, B.C., over recent weeks, according to the RCMP.
Authorities said six such robberies were reported between Feb. 22 and March 23 – four in central Richmond and two in the Steveston area.
"We want to alert the public to the increase in these reported crimes and urge other victims to come forward," said Insp. Michael Cohee, with the Richmond RCMP, in a statement.
"Awareness and prompt reporting are crucial in helping us address the issue effectively."
All of the victims were women, and none were physically hurt.
Investigators are still working to determine whether the crimes were committed by the same person, but said the suspect in five of the robberies had a similar description – as a man, 5'3" to 5'6" tall, who was dressed in dark clothing and wearing a mask.
As the investigation continues, Richmond RCMP offered tips to avoid being targeted by a purse-snatcher, including to "keep your head up, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings."
If a robber is after your purse, authorities recommend throwing the item in one direction and running in the other. Victims are also urged to take note of the suspect's appearance and which direction they're heading as they leave, then call 911 as soon as it's safe to do so.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Deadly six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 sparked by road rage incident
One person was killed in a six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 in Innisfil Friday evening.
'Of course, yes': Poland latest European country with interest in Canadian LNG
The President of Poland says his country would 'of course' be interested in purchasing Canadian liquefied natural gas if it were available, while the Canadian federal government has said it is 'not interested' in subsidizing future projects.
Invasive and toxic hammerhead worms make themselves at home in Ontario
Ontario is now home to an invasive and toxic worm species that can grow up to three feet long and can be dangerous to small animals and pets.
Britney Spears settles long-running legal dispute with estranged father, finally bringing ultimate end to conservatorship
Britney Spears has reached a settlement with her estranged father more than two years after the court-ordered termination of a conservatorship that had given him control of her life, their attorneys said.
Here's where Canadians are living abroad: report
A recent report sheds light on Canadians living abroad--estimated at around four million people in 2016—and the public policies that impact them.
Dozens in Italy give a fascist salute on the anniversary of Mussolini's execution
Dozens of people raised their arms in the fascist salute and shouted a fascist chant during ceremonies Sunday to honor Italian dictator Benito Mussolini on the 79th anniversary of his execution.
What is a 'halal mortgage'? Does it make housing more accessible?
The 2024 federal budget announced on April 16 included plans to introduce “halal mortgages” as a way to increase access to home ownership.
opinion RFK Jr.'s presidential candidacy and its potential threat to Biden and Trump
Although it's still unclear how much damage Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s candidacy can do to either Joe Biden or Donald Trump this election, Washington political columnist Eric Ham says what is clear is both sides recognize the potential threat.
Health minister 'deeply appreciative' of doctors but capital gains changes here to stay
Health Minister Mark Holland says while he is 'deeply appreciative' of the work doctors in Canada do, the federal government has no plans to scrap the proposed capital gains tax changes outlined in the latest budget, despite opposition from the Canadian Medical Association.