The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is issuing a public warning following a series of “blessing scams” that have targeted elderly residents in the city.
Since late May, investigators have identified at least five separate incidents across Vancouver involving the theft of thousands of dollars in cash and valuables.
“These suspects prey on the vulnerability of our seniors, using fear, manipulation, and cultural beliefs to steal their life savings,” says Cst. Darren Wong. “We are releasing this video in hopes that someone recognizes these suspects, and to remind everyone to speak with their elderly family members about these scams.”
The most recent incident, captured on CCTV, occurred on June 6th near Southwest Marine Drive and Yukon Street. The video shows an elderly woman being approached by two female suspects after leaving a grocery store.
“What appears to be a random encounter on camera is in fact a targeted strategy by the scammers.”
#VPDNews: The Vancouver Police Department is releasing CCTV footage and issuing a public warning following a series of “blessing scams” that have targeted elderly residents in the city, resulting in the theft of thousands of dollars in cash and valuables.
Investigators have… pic.twitter.com/Vl0hE7SuJY
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) June 16, 2026
The suspects started speaking with the victim, convincing her that a “terrible misfortune or curse would soon befall her family”. To ward off the bad luck, the suspects offered to perform a spiritual “blessing” on her valuables.
The victim was then escorted a few blocks away to meet a third suspect. The suspect told her to go home and return with her valuables for the ritual.
The victim returned to the scene with over $15,000 in cash and a gold ring inside her purse.
“Through sleight of hand and distraction, the suspects secretly removed the money and jewelry from her bag without her knowledge. She only discovered the theft after returning home,” added the VPD.
Police are advising residents to maintain their personal space and avoid close contact with strangers, make noise and attract attention if they feel unsafe, never give money or valuables to strangers, and call 911 immediately to report any suspicious or criminal activity.
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