Jewelry thieves targeting elderly women, cops say

Vancouver police are warning the public about jewelry thieves targeting theelderly—particularly South Asian women.

According to VPD spokesman Sgt. Randy Fincham, there were five incidents on the Aug. 9 to 11 weekend.

“We had a string of them … in one spot,” he said.

Three of those thefts were from elderly South Asian women in the SunsetCedar Cottage area around Main and Fraser streets.

According to Fincham, the thieves are targeting yellow gold.

He said the recent victims had bracelets, rings or earrings worth anywhere from $500 to $1,000 stolen.

Police believe the crime is being committed by a group of men and women described as having medium to dark skin.

The suspects are known to approach their victims, often speak in their native language, enter their personal space and slip off the jewelry.

Police are advising the public to conceal their valuables, not let anyone in their personal space, call for help if needed and report the crime.