Requesting assistance to identify driver involved in taxi impersonation frauds

Between July 20 and July 27, 2024, there have been multiple Fraud incidents reported in Northern Ontario involving what is believed to be the same vehicle, a grey Hyundai sedan (image attached) and the same individuals.

The driver of the vehicle is described as an approximately 30-year-old, man with a small build, black hair, brown eyes and scruffy facial hair (image attached). The passenger is described as an approximately 16-year-old, young man, who is Black with a lighter complexion, around 5'8" tall and has a heavier stature. An image of the youth is not included due to his perceived age.

In each incident, the suspect vehicle and driver impersonates a taxi or ride share service. The passenger exits the vehicle and approaches bystanders indicating that the driver only accepts debit and will compensate the bystander with cash if they will pay for the fare with a debit card. The driver provides the bystander with a debit machine where it is believed their PIN information is stolen and their debit card is swapped for a fake. The individuals subsequently use the stolen card and PIN to make purchases or money withdrawals.

Anyone with information related to the identity of the driver is asked to contact police at 705-675-9171.