REGINA, Saskatchewan — The Regina Police Service (RPS) has arrested two individuals in connection with a country-wide phone scam targeting seniors, authorities say.
Ciprian Teodor, 50, and Alexandra Condurache, 40, of Quebec have been jointly charged with five counts of fraud. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report five confirmed victims in Regina and one in the White Butte area.
Investigations were carried out collaboratively by RPS, Saskatoon Police Service (SPS), and the RCMP. Sgt. David Krieger of RPS explained that SPS obtained a suspect photo, which led to locating the individuals responsible. “[We] determined they were responsible for picking up cash from several victims,” he said.
The scam, often referred to as a grandparent scam, involves callers claiming a false emergency with a loved one and demanding immediate funds. Arrangements are then made for the money to be collected from victims.
Staff Sgt. Michael Shortland from the RCMP emphasized that these crimes often cross provincial and international borders, making inter-agency cooperation essential to successfully identify suspects and victims.
Police say more than $70,000 has been defrauded in Saskatchewan, with approximately $20,000 recovered so far. Authorities warn that there may be additional unreported cases and encourage anyone affected to come forward.
Shortland added that victims often feel traumatized or ashamed, which can prevent them from reporting crimes. Police urge families to educate elderly relatives about the risks of phone scams and to be cautious before sending money or sharing personal information.
