The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Robbery Unit is seeing a significant increase in personal electronic robberies stemming from online marketplace transactions, like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji, with in-person exchanges. While this time of year typically sees an increase in personal robberies, our Robbery Unit has seen approximately 30% more peer-to-peer robberies since October, including cellphone robberies. When setting up in-person exchanges, do not put your safety at risk by organizing the exchange at your home. Instead, consider using one of the OPS’ Safe Trade Exchange Zones or, at a minimum, go to a well-lit, video-surveilled, public place with a friend. For more information, please click here.
