Police say the man was arrested on Friday after receiving reports of several people arranging to buy a used PlayStation 5 at UsedVictoria only to arrive at the meeting point and have it stolen at gunpoint. The first report came in on Wednesday and a day later the West Shore RCMP said a similar crime had occurred in their jurisdiction. When the man was arrested by members of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team, police say they found several realistic replica firearms among the man’s belongings. None of the victims were injured in the incidents, although police say they were “deeply shaken” by the clashes. Investigators believe more people may have interacted with the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call Victoria Police at 250-995-7654. The man was still in police custody on Monday and is believed to have been involved in a total of four armed robberies. Victoria Police say they have been in contact with UsedVictoria while the investigation is ongoing. While the vast majority of online sales happen without incident, Victoria Police have released several tips on how to keep yourself safe:
Meet sellers and buyers in brightly lit, public places with people around, likely to have surveillance cameras, such as a shopping center or municipal building. Bring a friend or family member with you. If something goes wrong, get to a safe place and call 911.
