The Sidney North Saanich RCMP are warning Peninsula residents about a possible theft scam that involves two suspects.
On Aug. 8, an elderly woman had just gotten into her car after grocery shopping at Safeway in Sidney when she was approached by a man asking for directions.
The man produced a map and asked the elderly lady to show him how to get to Nanaimo. He spread the map out on an adjacent vehicle which caused the woman to exit from her own vehicle and turn her back to her open driver’s side door.
During this time it is believed another suspect entered the woman's vehicle and stole her wallet from inside her purse. She did not see the second suspect.
When the woman got back into her car she immediately realized her bright orange wallet was missing from inside her purse. She chased the man, however he fled on foot and Sidney North Saanich RCMP officers could not find him in the surrounding area.
The suspect is described as Caucasian, 20 to 30 years old with a stocky build and approximately 5’10” inches tall. He was wearing a navy jacket and ball cap with a red brim. He may speak with a foreign accent, however, it is not known whether this accent is real or fake.
A similar incident was reported to Nanaimo RCMP on Aug. 6.
Police would like to remind the public to ensure you keep watch of your valuables at all times when out in public.
Anyone who witnessed this incident or has more information is asked to call Sidney North Saanich RCMP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8447.