100 Mile House RCMP Urges Vigilance Amid Surge in Phone Scams

UPDATE: The 100 Mile House RCMP is sounding the alarm over a disturbing rise in telephone fraud cases targeting residents this winter. On January 19, Sgt. Brian Lamb revealed that an individual reported an attempted scam where a fraudster impersonated a financial institution, demanding payment in Apple gift cards.

The victim was coerced into providing personal information and sending funds before consulting their actual bank, which helped mitigate further losses. “This is just one of many scams where con artists pose as government or financial representatives,” Lamb cautioned.

With 78 fraud cases reported last week alone, the RCMP urges the community to remain vigilant. Anyone receiving suspicious calls or messages should verify the source before sharing any personal details. Victims of fraud are advised to contact their financial institutions immediately.

In related incidents, heavy fog on January 13 caused multiple vehicle accidents on Highway 97, including one where a driver sustained minor injuries after losing control. Police noted an uptick in calls about vehicles going off-road during the foggy conditions.

Additionally, a driver was pulled over on January 13 for an obstructed license plate and displayed signs of alcohol consumption, resulting in a seven-day driving prohibition.

On January 15, RCMP responded to a theft in progress at a parking lot on the 300 block of Highway 97. Officers arrested a male suspect and recovered stolen property from two vehicles. Charges for theft and possession of stolen goods are forthcoming.

A break and enter was also reported on Rainbow Drive on the same day, although it remains unclear when the incident occurred or what was taken.

On January 16, police conducted a patrol of Canim Hendrix Lake Road and discovered a driver operating a vehicle despite having a suspended license. The driver is expected to appear in court later.

The BC Highway Patrol also apprehended a driver with multiple vehicle defects on the same day; the individual was found to be prohibited from driving in B.C. and will face court proceedings.

In a significant recovery, on January 17, police discovered a stolen RV trailer on the 4000 block of Canim Hendrix Lake Road that had been reported stolen from Kamloops in March 2025. An adult female was detained but later released as the investigation continues.

The 100 Mile House RCMP is asking anyone with information about these incidents to reach out at 250-395-2456 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at bccrimestoppers.com. Stay alert and protect your personal information to avoid becoming the next victim of fraud.