Edmonton police warn distraction thefts now investigated as robberies

The Edmonton Police Service is warning the public about an escalation in distraction-style thefts that are now being investigated as personal robberies, according to a police release. Since Aug. 19, 2026, police say they have received at least 20 reports of distraction-style robberies involving the theft of jewellery.

According to the release, the thieves typically drive through residential areas looking for senior-aged South Asian women and use various tactics to engage them in conversation and encourage them to approach the vehicle. The occupants will ask for directions, tell the woman she looks like their mother or offer or ask for blessings, police say.

Recent reports indicate the suspects then grab at the victim or pull her arm into the vehicle, and in some cases forcibly remove her jewellery, according to police. At this time, no serious injuries have been reported as a result of the robberies, the release says.

Due to the forceful nature of these robberies and the fact that vehicles are involved, police are concerned that someone may get hurt.Det. Brys Francis, EPS Investigative Response Team

Francis also asked anyone who has been victimized or who witnesses this type of robbery to call police immediately at 911 and, if it is safe to do so, to take down the suspect vehicle's licence plate and description, according to the release.

Police are reminding Edmontonians to be vigilant if approached suddenly by strangers and to avoid approaching unknown vehicles, the release says. People are also advised to refrain from openly displaying expensive items such as jewellery, watches or devices, and to trust their instincts by moving away and not engaging if a situation does not feel right, according to police.

The release says more information about distraction thefts is available online. It does not say how many suspects are sought, whether any arrests have been made or where in Edmonton the reported incidents occurred.