Nanaimo RCMP is warning business owners of a "quick change” scammer targeting central Island businesses.
One male is believed to be responsible for a number of reported incidents.
Mounties were contacted by a business owner on Monday, who reported a man came into the business and made a small purchase with a $50 Canadian bill, said Const. Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in a press release.
The suspect then asked for a specific combination of bills as change. While the cashier was getting the denominations, the suspect changed his mind and asked for a different combination. He did this several times to confuse the clerk. Using this method, the suspect has, on several occasions, walked away with much more than his original $50, O'Brien said.
Ladysmith RCMP has reported similar occurrences April 12-17. Investigators believe the same person is involved.
The suspect is white, approximately 6-feet tall, 250 pounds, in his late 30s, to early 40s, with short brown hair and receding hairline. He also has a small tattoo on the right side of his neck.
If you have information on the identity of the suspect, please call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, text 274637, keyword Nanaimo or submit your tip online to www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com.