Following a series of violent robberies linked to an online marketplace, Richmond RCMP are warning the public to be aware of the dangers of buying and selling online.

A string of alleged robberies took place near a local school in the 9500 block of Williams Road in Richmond, Mounties said Monday. There are many schools on Williams Road; in particular, it is home to James Whiteside Primary School, Hugh McRoberts Secondary School and Child’s World Nursery School.

According to police, several of the vendors reported being threatened with a gun, while another reported being physically attacked by two suspects.

All the incidents involved someone trying to sell a product through an online marketplace and meeting potential buyers near the school. Police said buyers either wanted to look at the item being sold before running away with it, or they refused to pay, threatened the seller and enlisted the help of an accomplice to take the item from them.

All but one of the reported robberies were committed after dusk, between 8.30pm and 11.30pm, while four of the six robberies were committed in the three-week period between 14 October and 1 November. said the policeman.

Due to the closeness of the events and the similarities in the suspects’ statements, the police are considering the possibility that the robberies may be related to each other.

“The frequency and increasing nature of these robberies is alarming,” said Cpl. Adriana O’Malley is media relations officer for the Richmond RCMP.

“Our goal is to prevent further incidents by alerting the public. If you are selling products, please arrange to meet during the day or early evening at a public location such as our Safe Exchange Zone.

The Richmond RCMP’s Secure Clearing Zone, an area with CCTV coverage, is located at its main detachment on No. 5 Rd.

Richmond RCMP advise anyone arranging a meeting to buy or sell goods to conduct transactions in daylight and in public, well-lit areas. Bring a companion when possible and limit your personal information to the buyer or seller (avoid sharing address details, workplace or personal routine). If anything seems suspicious or unsafe, trust your instincts and leave the area immediately.

Anyone with information about the six robberies is asked to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote case number 2024-34703. Anonymous tips can be left through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.solvecrime.ca.