After two rural banks were targeted by alleged robbers, OPP have issued a safety warning.
The OPP West Region Crime Units are investigating two recent robberies in which armed suspects allegedly used similar tactics.
The first happened in April in Arkona when three masked suspects robbed a credit union on Arkona Road. On May 21, there was another armed robbery in Grey Highlands.
Masked men allegedly robbed a financial business in Grey Highlands carrying at least one firearm. Photo courtesy of Grey-Bruce OPP.
Media Relations Coordinator Derek Rogers said police believe it's possible the robberies are connected.
"With the evidence that we've collected so far, we can't definitively make that connection, but there is certainly a strong suspicion that the individuals that were involved with two of these robberies at credit unions are part of a group, or individuals responsible for the crime," said Rogers.
He said credit union operators, employees and members of the public are advised to be extra vigilant.
"There are certainly some similarities in terms of the appearance and in the way that these have been committed," he said. "So that's why we believe that there may be a connection, and we also believe that credit unions may be the target."
He said in the event of a robbery, employees at financial institutions are reminded not to touch any objects or surfaces the suspect may have touched to preserve evidence, observe suspect identifiers including behaviours, odours and clothing brands. Also, employees are reminded to advise police of any suspicious persons that seem out of place, both before and after an incident.
Rogers said employees and the public are advised not to confront, attack or chase the suspects. Instead, cooperate with the suspects, and when it is safe to do so, call 911.
(One of three suspects involved in an armed robbery at a bank on Arkona Road. April 5, 2023. Photo via OPP.)
Anyone with information regarding the robbery in Arkona or Grey Highlands is asked to call OPP or Sarnia-Lambton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.sarnialambtoncrimestoppers.org.