Weeks after an online seller was attacked with pepper-spray in Burnaby, B.C., authorities have identified a suspect.
Burnaby RCMP said the victim arranged to meet a purported buyer near Halifax Street and Phillips Avenue on the evening of Jan. 26, only to be robbed after handing over the goods.
Officers were called to the scene, but said the suspect had fled by the time they arrived.
“As more people choose to use online platforms to buy and sell items, so too will fraudsters and people with bad intentions,” said Sgt. Aly Mohan, in a statement.
“We know people are going to use these platforms but we’re just asking them to be cautious, especially when arranging a meeting where money and property are to be exchanged.”
The RCMP did not disclose what items the victim was selling in this case, or which online marketplace he used to advertise them.
Burnaby RCMP’s Strike Force Unit managed to identify a suspect, and he was arrested last week at a home on Inlet Street in Coquitlam.
Authorities have not publicly identified the man, as he has not been charged. The RCMP said their investigation into the robbery is ongoing.
To help ensure safety while buying or selling things online, the RCMP recommends meeting in public places during the daylight hours, and bringing along a friend.
