Police stop $406,000 fraud targeting northern Vancouver Island First Nation

Alert Bay RCMP say they have prevented a fraud scheme that targeted the Namgis First Nation, protecting more than $400,000 intended for a new wellness and treatment centre on northern Vancouver Island.

The case came to light on May 13, when the First Nation reported that $406,000 earmarked for contractors had been redirected to a fraudulent bank account via a scam email. Authorities say early intervention was key in limiting the financial loss.

Collaboration with law enforcement in Eastern Canada led to a freeze on the bank account, which police allege was operated by an organized crime group. Officers from Alert Bay later executed a search warrant at a residence in Aurora, Ont., uncovering suspected counterfeit currency, forged documents, electronic devices, and other items linked to organized financial crime networks.

Police did not specify exactly how much of the funds were recovered but described the amount as “significant.” They say the recovered money will be returned to the First Nation through court proceedings, and the investigation remains ongoing.

This case highlights the ongoing risks of cyber-enabled fraud affecting Indigenous communities, particularly when funds are directed for critical infrastructure projects.