The Oak Bay Police Department responded to 76 calls for service this week.
FRAUD
A resident reported sending $2,100 via e-transfer to a prospective landlord in Vancouver, later confirmed as fraudulent. Police initiated an investigation involving a judicial authorization to trace the funds to an account in Quebec, where the holder had unknowingly acted as a “money mule” for an international fraud suspect met through an online dating site. The individual had converted funds into cryptocurrency and was also defrauded. OBPD thanks the Sûreté du Québec for their assistance. The international suspect and their whereabouts remain unknown. (File 25-1419)
Fraud Prevention Tips:
• Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Do not accept e-transfers for others—this enables fraudsters to move proceeds of crime.
• For rentals, insist on a walkthrough before payment.
• Be wary of pressure tactics or threats demanding immediate payment.
• If in doubt, contact your local police for advice or to report concerns.
RESIDENTIAL MISCHIEF
On Nov. 19 at approximately 8:56 p.m., an unknown male caused property damage along the 3000 blocks of Lansdowne Rd and Beach Dr. Damage is estimated at $5,000–$7,500 across six properties. Residents are encouraged to review CCTV footage and report any unreported damage. This investigation is ongoing. (Master File 25-3294)
BUSINESS BREAK AND ENTER
On Nov. 23/25 at 2:15am OBPD were called to attend the 2000 block of Oak Bay Ave.for an alarm call regarding a glass break. Police attended and confirmed that an unknown person had smashed the front door and gained entry into the business. With the assistance of the Integrated Canine Service (ICS), the business was cleared of any suspects. A large bowl containing fake coins was taken but left outside the door. Suspect description: male, wearing a silver hooded jacket, black pants, black gloves. This investigation is ongoing. (File 25-3325)
If you have information about these or other incidents in Oak Bay, please contact the Oak Bay Police Department
at 250-592-2424 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
