Police in Ontario say they’re on the lookout for a person who’s alleged to have swindled almost a dozen victims throughout Canada in a romance rip-off.
Peel Regional Police say 11 victims from Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and Saskatchewan misplaced a complete of $275,000 within the alleged rip-off.
Investigators say that between June 2020 and September 2021, the victims accepted random buddy requests on social media from the suspect, who claimed to be a army member stationed abroad.
Police say that communication developed into what victims believed was a relationship, and the suspect advised them he wanted monetary assist together with his transition dwelling from army deployment.
Investigators say the victims transferred cash to the suspect after receiving assurances they might be reimbursed.
Police say the 30-year-old man failed to point out up for a scheduled courtroom look in January and is now wished for a number of alleged offences, together with fraud and possession of property obtained by crime.
Peel police warn that scammers will use “any means needed” to persuade those that their requests are reliable.
“Defend your self, and at all times keep away from sending cash or private info to somebody you haven’t met,” police mentioned in a information launch.
This report by The Canadian Press was first printed Feb. 6, 2025.
The Canadian Press
