Kamloops RCMP warn residents of jewelry scam

The Kamloops RCMP are warning people of a jewelry scam that is circulating in the area.

According to the police, a person was shopping on the 900-block of Columbia Street on Mar. 13, around 2:30 pm, when they were approached by a man in his 30s and a teenage girl wearing a hijab.

A news release said the pair were in a dark four-door sedan with an Ontario licence plate.

Police said the victim was convinced to trade her real gold necklace for two that were fake.

“Unfortunately, it is not the first time Kamloops police have received reports involving this kind of scam,” said Corporal Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP Detachment spokesperson.

“Similar scams pop up from time to time, usually involving people selling or trading fake gold in parking lots and presenting it as authentic.”

In late February, the Kamloops RCMP received a report about someone allegedly selling fake gold in a parking lot on Halston Avenue.

Other incidents were also reported in November, the RCMP said.

The RCMP are releasing this information to gather evidence and also to prevent other people from being victimized by the scam.

Police advise residents to never exchange money for items from strangers, feel free to walk from people pressuring you to trade or buy an item and to report any suspicious activity.

Anyone with information related to the March 13, 2025, jewelry scam is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at (250) 828-3000 and refer to file 2025-7121.