- Residents of Parksville Qualicum Beach reported multiple Scams and thefts to local police from April 14 to April 20.
- Victims lost amounts between $220 and $15,000 in online cryptocurrency scams and other frauds.
- The Oceanside RCMP received 269 complaints during the seven-day period.
- Authorities encourage residents to use caution with unsolicited investment opportunities and online requests.
- Additional incidents involved thefts from vehicles, equipment burglary, vandalism, and attempted vehicle theft.
Several residents in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region reported falling victim to online scams and thefts between April 14 and April 20, according to local police. Financial losses from these incidents totaled over $36,000 USD, with most cases involving cryptocurrency fraud and unauthorized online banking activities.
Police received numerous reports from victims during that week. On April 15, a resident lost approximately $15,000 after responding to a cryptocurrency ad online and communicating with a stranger via social media. Another resident reported losing about $7,500 the next day after investing with someone behind an online testimonial. In an unrelated case on April 16, a resident lost $220 by responding to an email posing as a friend, which requested gift card purchases.
Further incidents included a resident losing $4,500 through unauthorized bank transactions and another losing $370 via an e-transfer scam. Another individual lost $870 after someone called offering to recover lost cryptocurrency and requested sensitive information, such as a driver’s licence and banking details.
Oceanside RCMP Sgt. Shane Worth urged caution in these matters. “If anyone ever receives an unsolicited phone call or email offering an investment opportunity, immediately hang up or delete the email. It is a scam,” Worth said. “If you are looking to invest, ask friends and family for advice or recommendations, conduct your own research, and always use a reputable financial advisor, bank or broker.”
From April 14 to April 20, the Oceanside RCMP recorded a total of 269 complaints. Other reported incidents included an attempted vehicle theft in Parksville, a series of property thefts in Nanoose Bay where equipment such as a Stihl chainsaw, Yamaha outboard motor, and Honda inverter were taken, and vandalism of a Bobcat loader.
Additional thefts occurred at various locations: an unlocked vehicle was searched in Qualicum Beach, a wallet was stolen from a parked car in Bowser, and a garage door opener along with sunglasses were taken from another unlocked vehicle in Qualicum Beach. Property damage of roughly $3,000 occurred at the Parksville Community Park due to a vehicle; parties involved chose restorative justice over court proceedings.
Residents are reminded to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or crime. Emergencies should be reported by dialing 911, while the Oceanside RCMP non-emergency line is available at 250-248-6111. The detachment, located at 421 Pym Street North in Parksville, operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays.
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