The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP has launched Project Safe Trade at the Pembroke detachment (77 International Drive).
The OPP says creating a ‘community safety zone’ is about moving online transactions away from secluded parking lots, personal residences or other areas and bringing them to a public place.
The Safe Trade parking spots are always available with no appointment needed.
The OPP will not mediate transactions, provide documentation or be a witness to a transaction, however if an officer is requested, one will respond and only intervene if the transaction becomes a criminal matter.
Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment Commander Steph Neufeld says the local launch of Project Safe Trade comes at an ideal time with the busy holiday season upon us.
The OPP says when doing transactions online you should meet in a busy public place, bring a trusted friend or family member as a witness, conduct transactions during daylight hours and do not erase emails, texts or voicemails between yourself and the buyer or seller.
For more information, visit OPP.ca/SafeTrade.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)