The Alert Bay RCMP has successfully intervened in a complex, multi-jurisdictional fraud investigation, preventing the total loss of funds intended for the construction of a new Wellness and Treatment Centre for the ‘Namgis First Nation.
On May 13, 2025, the ‘Namgis First Nation reported being defrauded of approximately $406,000 after an apparently fraudulent email redirected a payment meant for contractors to a fake account. Through swift investigative action, RCMP frontline officers were able to freeze a significant amount of money in a bank account linked to an organized crime group operating out of Eastern Canada.
The Alert Bay RCMP led the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Aurora, Ontario, resulting in:
- Uncovering critical evidence including forged documents, bank tokens, electronic devices, and suspected large quantity of counterfeit currency.
- Identification of suspects connected to organized crime and other major fraud cases across Canada.
- Collaboration with the Commissaire à la lutte contre la corruption (CLCC) and other agencies as part of a broader effort to dismantle organized financial crime networks operating in Canada.
By freezing the funds, investigators have ensured that they are available for return to the ‘Namgis First Nation via court processes.
“Unlike most major financial crime investigations, which are typically handled by specialized units, this case was spearheaded by frontline officers at the Alert Bay RCMP detachment,” said Sergeant David Ribeiro, detachment commander of Alert Bay RCMP detachment. “Their proactive approach, persistence, and collaboration with multiple agencies across Canada were instrumental in freezing funds and uncovering links to organized crime. Our officers not only identified the fraud quickly but also navigated complex legal processes and coordinated nationally—something rarely seen at the detachment level.”
As the investigation remains active, the RCMP encourages all organizations to verify payment instructions through secure channels to prevent similar incidents.
For more information, please visit: Safety tips – Frauds and scams.
