VANCOUVER — Four men have been arrested by University RCMP after they allegedly assaulted and robbed two UBC students who were trying to return a computer containing child pornography purchased from an online seller.
The disturbing incident has police warning students to meet in a public place or at the police detachment when buying or selling to strangers.
On Wednesday, a UBC student bought a computer from an online seller. When he returned home, he found what looked like child porn on the computer. He confronted the seller about the material and, along with a friend, agreed to meet the seller in a parkade to exchange the computer.
According to a police press release, the two students were allegedly confronted by four men who assaulted and robbed them, forcing one of the students into a vehicle. The second student managed to run and reported the incident to police.
University RCMP arrested four men, who are now facing several charges.
“Members of the public or students are always welcome to use the front area of any detachments including the university detachment as a safer trading and meeting spot,” said Staff-Sgt. Chuck Lan. “I also want to emphasize that if members of the public see or become aware of a potential crime, to please call police. That is the safest and most sensible course of action.”
