Two arrests, stolen CERB, other government cheques recovered by Surrey RCMP

SURREY (NEWS 1130) — Surrey RCMP arrested two people and recovered $33,000 in stolen government cheques Saturday.

During patrols, members of the RCMP COVID-19 Compliance and Enforcement Team noticed three suspicious vehicles near a home in Cloverdale. They noted the vehicles had fake license plates and temporary operating permits. Officers tried to stop one of the vehicles as it pulled into the driveway of the home, but it drove into the backyard.

Police said the man driving got out and ran off, while a woman in the car was arrested as soon as she stepped out. After a brief chase on foot, police managed to arrest the man.

“Further investigation of the vehicle led to the seizure of a large quantity of stolen property from several Lower Mainland jurisdictions, including $33,000 worth of stolen Canada Emergency Response Benefit cheques, and numerous pieces of fraudulent identification,” RCMP says in a release.

RCMP have since confirmed the cheques weren’t just CERB cheques, but also GST cheques, income tax refunds, and some from other organizations.

The man, in his 30s, is still in custody, while the woman was released with an appearance in court set for a later date.

Charges have not been laid, but the investigation continues.

The COVID-19 Compliance and Enforcement Team was created by Surrey RCMP and the City of Surrey.

“Not only are we looking out for safety aspects like social distancing, but keeping our eyes out for criminals who would seek to take advantage of opportunities presented by the pandemic,” says Insp. Wendy Mehat.

Since its launch at the end of March, the team has conducted more than 12,000 checks of businesses, faith-based locations, event locations, recovery homes, and parks and beaches in Surrey.