After several violent robberies, Winnipeg Police Services (WPS) is reminding users of online classified ads to be wary when dealing with sellers and buyers.

Since the beginning of September, four people have been victim to false online advertisements regarding cell phones where they were robbed at knifepoint.

One incident, says WPS, occurred, "On September 3, 2019, at 10:15 p.m., a 50-year-old male responded to an online advertisement regarding an iPhone for sale and agreed to meet the seller outside a business on McGee Street. The victim arrived with his 9-year-old child and was confronted by a male who demanded his money.

"The suspect produced a knife, grabbed the 9-year-old and held the knife to the child's neck. The victim provided the suspect with $100 cash and the suspect fled. The child was not physically injured."

The other three incidents all occurred during the day, over the course of a week, all involving a knife.

WPS says, "After an investigation, Winnipeg Police officers arranged to make a purchase from the seller on September 15, 2019. The seller approached an unmarked police vehicle armed with a knife and was taken safely into custody after a short foot pursuit."

A 25-year-old male of Winnipeg has been charged with four counts of robbery and other charges.

WPS reminds users: "Buying or selling items through an online classified site can be risky. Members of the public are reminded to use caution when purchasing items through online advertisements."

WPS has four Buy And Sell Exchange Zones at all four police stations open to the public.

Buy and Sell Safety Tips

  • Ask about the history of the item being sold
  • Ask for a photo of the serial number before meeting and attempt to confirm the item hasn't been reported stolen
  • When buying or selling - take screenshots of the advertisement and ID number, the seller's contact information, and all communications
  • Check the buyer/seller's name through an online search engine
  • Do not give our personal or banking information
  • Do not meet someone alone
  • Do not transfer/provide money to the person before receiving the product
  • Meet during daylight hours, in a public space
  • Take only enough cash with you to pay for the item being purchased
  • Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, it probably is