B.C. crime briefs: Surrey police warn of rise in distraction thefts | Gun and drugs seized in Kamloops​on March 27, 2025 at 5:48 pm

Surrey police are warning of several distraction thefts this year in the city.

There are various reports of different but similar distraction techniques.

In one instance, the victim is approached and advised they need gas and somehow convince the person to provide them with money on the spot or to withdraw cash from their bank accounts.

In another, the suspects approach a person and attempt to sell them gold jewelry or an iPhone. After the transaction, the victims discover that the gold is fake, or the phone does not function, according to police.

In some interactions, the victim had their own jewelry replaced with costume jewelry.

Surrey police investigators are advising the public to be aware of their surroundings and to familiarize themselves with these crimes.

Kamloops Mounties have seized a handgun, ammunition, and half a kilogram of drugs, police said in a news release Thursday.

On Sunday, just before 7 a.m., Kamloops RCMP officers were at a motel on the 2400-block of the Trans Canada Highway East, as part of an investigation into flight from police, dangerous driving, and prohibited driving offences.

“While arresting a suspect, officers observed items consistent with drug trafficking inside the motel room, which led to them arresting another individual present and obtaining a search warrant,” said RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP spokesperson.

“A handgun, firearm magazines, cash, and suspected methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack cocaine were seized as part of the ongoing investigation.”

The suspect who was arrested for the driving offences was released with a court date and conditions.

The investigation into the drugs and weapons offences is separate and ongoing.