Richmond RCMP are reminding citizens to be wary of individuals approaching homes door-to-door after two suspects were nabbed during a break-and-enter in progress.

At 2:46 p.m. on December 2, Richmond RCMP responded to a report about a break-in occuring in the 11000 block of Seaton Road.

Two suspects allegedly rang the doorbell at the residence.

According to Richmond RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dennis Hwang, the pair was carrying an umbrella from the natural gas and electricity company Fortis BC, which may have been an attempt to disguise themselves.

When no one answered the door, the duo broke into the house through a locked rear door.

However, a homeowner was inside the house and called police.

Richmond RCMP established a security perimeter and arrested two suspects, wearing all black, as they attempted to evade police.  

A 31-year-old male, Rianne Maufou Yee, and a 31-year-old female, Kayla Melissa Perry, have each been charged with one count of breaking-and-entering a house with the intent to commit an indictable offence.

Both suspects are known to police and more charges may be laid as the investigation continues on.

Richmond RCMP are reminding citizens to take precautions when people approach homes door to door, and to ask individuals to verify themselves with proper identification.

“Whether the persons are from trades, salespeople, or persons in more official capacities, please check for signs that something may be off,” Cpl. Hwang stated. “They may be using props to assist them such as ladders, clipboards, and reflective vests.”

As an example, Cpl. Hwang pointed out that in a recent case, the suspects wore hardhats and coveralls and falsely presented themselves as city employees.

Richmond RCMP are also reminding people that they do not have to open their door and to call police if something appears suspicious.