Cops track cross-border bandit

Police in four jurisdictions in Western Canada are searching for a man responsible for armed robberies at eight financial institutions.

The first robbery occurred in Princeton Dec. 1 (CIBC); the last in Aldergrove Jan. 21 (TD Canada Trust).

In between, the man robbed financial institutions in:

• Vernon, Dec. 9 (Interior Savings Credit Union)
• High River, Alta., Dec. 19 (Scotiabank)
• Merritt, Dec. 23 (RBC)
• Swift Current, Sask., Jan 8 (RBC)
• Lethbridge, Alta., Jan. 13 (TD Bank)
• Claresholm, Alta., Jan. 16 (TD Bank)

In each instance, the man either produced a firearm or suggested he had a weapon and made off on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.

RCMP spokesman Kris Clark says Mounties in B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan as well as the regional police force in Lethbridge are working to identify the suspect and bring him safely into custody.

Clark says no one present at the various financial institutions was injured during the hold-ups.

"I can't provide specifics about any of the investigations other than to say we're concerned. A weapon has been involved... he has entered the financial institution and demanded money. Fortunately, we have had no injuries," says Clark.

"There is always that concern (of violence), especially considering a weapon has been involved in all these incidents."

The man is described as:

• Caucasian male
• Between 25 and 35 years of age
• Slim Build, 5'6" to 6' tall
• Unshaven with a brown goatee or beard
• Seen wearing a black toque and dark sunglasses
• Dressed in dark clothing and wearing gloves

The suspect has been criss-crossing the three western provinces, committing robberies between three and 16 days apart.

"There is no clear pattern," says Clark.

The RCMP office in Calgary is heading the investigation.

Anyone with information as to the identity of the suspect is asked to contact the RCMP tip line at 1-844-887-6287.

Clark says the suspect is considered armed and dangerous. People should not approach him.