Public facilities and private properties in our City have recently been impacted by acts of graffiti and vandalism. We are encouraging all community members to stay vigilant and report all criminal activity to the RCMP. (306-975-1610)
Even if arrests can’t be made, these tips help keep law enforcement informed on these issues and prepared for future activities.
Please check and monitor your property (back fences, garages, alleys, etc.) for signs of vandalism/graffiti and contact the RCMP if you’ve been victimized.
RCMP Address: 515 Centennial Dr S
RCMP Phone: 306-975-1610 or 310-RCMP for non emergencies
Call 911 for emergencies
Reduce the Risk of Home Flooding and Water Damage
As seasonal storms and heavy rains become more frequent this time of year, it’s important for residents to be prepared for flooding threats around our homes and neighborhoods. Some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your downspouts are extended and aimed away from the foundation of your house.
- Ensure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris and blockages so that water can flow freely.
- Don’t block storm drains with any materials or items from your property
- Take caution when driving through flooded streets/alleys – Hazards may be hidden by pooled water.
For additional information on water drainage and elevations in Martensville, visit the Drainage and Elevations page at Martensville.ca
School’s Out Summer Camps
School’s out, and the fun is just beginning! Looking for some summer fun once school is out? Our School’s Out Summer Camps offer an exciting mix of fun and adventure! you attend for one week or join us for all four – our camps offer action-packed, hands-on experiences filled with creativity, nature, teamwork, and loads of fun. Camps are appropriate for kids aged 5-10. For more information and to register, visit ‘Program Registrations’ at martensville.ca
ParticipACTION Community Challenge: Learn to Play
Join us every Monday and Wednesday in June for ParticipACTION Community Challenge Learn to Play events. Each day, individuals, friends and families can come to one of our facilities and learn about a different sport. This is a FREE program for everyone!
• June 25: Learn to Play Outdoor Soccer led by Valley United Soccer Club- Chrome Dome Field
• June 30: Canada Day Eve MAP Frenzy- all ages, all sports, all the fun before the Canada Day movie! Located at the MAP
The Community Challenge is a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June in search of Canada’s Most Active Community, which will win $100,000 to support local sport and physical activity initiatives. Learn more at participaction.com
Canada Day Celebrations
Celebrate our great nation with a free drive-in movie, open gym time at the MAP, and fireworks on Monday, June 30th!
- Free drop-in gym time at the MAP from 6pm-10pm. All three courts will be open for various sports and activities.
- Moana 2 will be playing as this year’s drive-in movie at the ball diamonds parking lot at Kinsmen Park. Gates for the movie will open at 7:30pm, and the movie will start around 9:30. This is a free event.
- The Fireworks show will be happening by the tennis courts at Kinsmen Park. The show will begin around 10:30pm. Martensville & District Kinsmen Club, will begin around 10:30pm. This is a free event.
Thanks to all of our sponsors for putting on these events:
Clark’s Supply & Service Ltd.
Kinmen Club/Buster Days for the fireworks
North Prairie Developments and CANWEST
Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates City of Martensville Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public and we invite you to attend in person or virtually to see what is happening in our community.
July 8th – Committee of The Whole Meeting
July 15th – Regular Council Meeting
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you’d prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.
Public Consultation Regarding ATV/Dirt bike use in Martensville
We appreciate everyone who has shown interest in the issue of ATV, dirt bike, and unlicensed vehicle use in Martensville, including on roadways, in parks, and lands within the City of Martensville.
Your input is valuable, and we encourage respectful dialogue that considers all perspectives. Our goal is to foster meaningful discussion, share information, and raise awareness about the concerns being brought forward in the community.
For more information on vehicle operating guidelines, please refer to The City of Martensville’s All Terrain Vehicle Bylaw No.11-2013, found at martensville.ca
Please stay tuned for upcoming engagement opportunities on this matter.
Back Lane Maintenance and Safety
The Martensville Fire Department is reminding residents to please keep their grass and weeds trimmed in their back alleys, as per Nuisance Abatement Bylaw No. 8-2023.
Regular maintenance of these areas helps to reduce fire risks, and keep our community tidy and safe.
For any related questions, please call the Martensville Fire Hall at 306-934-5822.
View the full bylaw at Martensville.ca.
City Council Reviews Lease Agreement, Zoning Amendments, and Major Developments at June 24 Meeting
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
At the June 24th council meeting, members addressed a range of key issues, beginning with two motions previously discussed at the last Committee of the Whole meeting.
The first motion involved a new lease agreement with Great Plains College at the Civic Centre. The second pertained to the city’s Development Incentive Abatement program, focusing on lots that remain unsold.
A proposed zoning bylaw amendment regarding care homes in R1 residential areas was also brought back before council. The revised proposal recommended increasing the maximum number of residents permitted in a residential care home from four to five. It also aimed to establish formal definitions for both residential care homes and custodial care facilities. Under the proposed changes, only residential care homes, such as hospices, personal care homes, childcare facilities, adult group homes for individuals with disabilities, and seniors’ group homes, would be permitted. Custodial care facilities would not be allowed under the amended bylaw. Council was also asked to approve a five-year economic business incentive for a new development located at 910 and 900 Centennial Drive North. The proposed project, valued at over $4 million, is expected to create between 30 and 40 new jobs. The development includes a Carl’s Jr. restaurant, a convenience store, and a Petro Canada gas station, making it eligible for the city's incentive program.
The final item on the agenda was a discretionary use application for a 90seat licensed daycare at the Martensville Recreation Centre (MRC). The name of the
applicant is to remain confidential until the application receives council approval. Martensville City Council will convene for its next monthly Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, July 8th at 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. For more information about Council and to view weekly meeting agendas, visit Martensville.ca.
Martensville to Host Free Outdoor Movie and Fireworks Canada Day Celebration on June 30
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville residents are invited to kick off their Canada Day festivities a day early with an exciting evening of free, family-friendly events on Monday, June 30.
The celebration begins at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP) with a free open gym from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. All three courts will be open for drop-in sports and activities, giving families and individuals of all ages a chance to get active and have fun before the evening's main events begin.
At 7:30 p.m., gates will open at the outdoor movie site. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks for a magical night under the stars. This year's community-voted movie is Moana 2, set to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m., just as the sun sets.
The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display at 10:30 p.m., lighting up the sky above the ball diamonds.
“Due to dry conditions, we were unable to host fireworks for Buster Days, which actually worked out, because now we get to put on a fantastic Canada Day fireworks display,” said Jamie McCulloch, Recreation Program Coordinator II for the City of Martensville. “We can’t wait to see our local residents come together to celebrate this special day as a community.”
The entire event is free, with the exception of snacks and treats available for purchase on site from the Martensville Youth Connection (MYC).
This celebration is made possible through the partnership of the City of Martensville, North Prairie Developments Ltd., and Canwest Commercial & Land Corporation. A special thank you goes to Clark’s Supply & Service Inc. and the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club for their generous support.
“Thank you to everyone who helped bring this event together,” McCulloch added. “It’s sure to be a fun-filled evening and a perfect way to celebrate Canada Day in Martensville.”
Venture Heights Principal Ron Biberdorf Bids Farewell to VHS After 13 Years
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
After 13 years of dedicated leadership at Venture Heights School, Principal Ron Biberdorf is stepping down, but not slowing down. This fall, he’ll begin an exciting new chapter as an academic teacher at an academy in Saskatoon with a curriculum based around hockey, blending his passion for education and athletics in a unique, studentcentered environment.
While he refers to his departure as a form of retirement from Venture Heights, Biberdorf admits taking it easy wasn’t quite the right fit.
“I was originally thinking about taking a year off to relax,” he shared. “But I knew I’d get bored. This opportunity felt like the perfect fit. It’s better to be busy with something that feels right than not busy at all.”
His new role marks a return to his teaching roots. At the academy, Biberdorf will lead the academic side of a specialized Grade 8 and 9 program, while athletic trainers handle on-ice development.
“One of the best parts of my day at Venture was coaching kids,” he said. “So to have that built right into the rhythm of each day is a great opportunity.”
What sets the academy apart is its blended model, integrating academics and elite hockey training into one seamless experience, all under the same roof.
“A lot of programs separate the two, but here, everything is designed to flow together,” he explained. “It’s actually quite similar to what we did with the Arts Academy at Venture, building curriculum around student passions.”
Biberdorf’s 32-year career in education has taken him to numerous locations, with stops in Osler, Lloydminster, Pontiex, Flin Flon, and even Curaçao. But Venture Heights has been his longest tenure.
“It’s the longest I’ve stayed at one school. What I’ve loved most is how our staff worked together to build amazing programs, whether it was arts, tech integration, or enrichment. Everyone stepped up and took on leadership roles.”
He’s proud of the many milestones achieved during his time at the school, including six Prairie Spirit School Division track-and-field titles and a memorable Grade 8 volleyball championship win over older Grade 9 teams.
“That volleyball team was something special. A lot of those girls are still playing today and some are looking at post-secondary opportunities. That’s what it’s all about.”
Beyond the awards and accolades, it’s the people and relationships that Biberdorf says he’ll miss most. “I’ve truly appreciated the support of the Martensville community, and the relationships built with families. I’ll miss coaching here, but I plan to come back and visit. I’ll always feel like part of this place.”
He credits his early mentors, teachers who also happened to be his hockey teammates, with inspiring him to pursue a career in education. “Even in Grade 10 or 11, I was playing senior hockey with teachers from my school. They mentored me both in class and on the ice. That stuck with me.”
As he steps into this new opportunity, Brent Guenther, currently the principal in Dundurn, will succeed Biberdorf as principal at Venture Heights.
Biberdorf credits much of his appreciation for the past 13 years in Martensville to the staff he was able to work alongside. “They’ve been incredible to work with. We built some truly special things together, programs that made a difference for kids. I couldn’t have asked for a better team. I would definitely say the biggest strength at Venture Heights is its staff.”
Saskatchewan Pet Expo Celebrates Another Successful Year
Shanine
Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The 9th Annual Saskatchewan Pet Expo, held at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion on June 21st and 22nd, was once again a heartwarming and energetic celebration of all things pets, and the people who love them. The event brought together vendors, visitors, and countless furry (and not-so-furry) friends under one roof, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
From the moment the doors opened, the venue was filled with warmth, excitement, and the unmistakable sound of wagging tails. Animal lovers from across the region came out to support the event.
A wide variety of vendors were in attendance, providing an array of products and services. From handcrafted pet accessories and treats to expert advice from veterinarians, dog trainers, and animal wellness professionals, there was something for every pet lover to discover.
Visitors to the event had the opportunity to meet adoptable pets, shop local, learn about pet care, or simply spend time with other animal enthusiasts. Plus, it was a fun outing to take part in as a family, with the furry family members invited to attend as well.
Of course, no pet expo would be complete without its real stars, the animals. From playful puppies and curious cats to unique creatures of all shapes and sizes, the expo was filled with smiles, laughter, and countless heartwarming moments thanks to the furry guests.
This year’s event featured around 60 vendors, including pet experts, crafters, home bakers, and artisans. There were also adoptable animals from local rescues, educational opportunities on pet health, and a BBQ serving up smokies and burgers, ensuring there was truly something for everyone.
SPORTS 2025 Rally Cap Tournament Moved Indoors for a
Despite the curveball thrown by Mother Nature, the Sask Five Giants 2025 Rally Cap Year-End Tournament was a resounding success, thanks to quick thinking, dedicated volunteers, and the fantastic new Martensville Recreation Centre.
When wet weather forced the closure of the ball diamonds at Prairie Oasis Park in Warman, and disrupted plans for the outdoor tournament, the event was quickly relocated indoors. The Sask Five Giants shared a special thank you to their Recreation Coordinator for the swift planning and to all the volunteers who came together to ensure the day ran smoothly.
Home
Run Finish
Over 150 young players filled the MRC to show off their baseball skills, share laughs, and proudly represent the Sask Five Giants Baseball Association. The event featured a variety of skills stations, a pitching lane, goody bags, and plenty of indoor turf fun.
A huge thank-you also goes to the Saskatoon Berries Baseball team for stepping in to help support the event and make the day even more special.
While the original outdoor format is always a season highlight, the indoor version proved to be a fantastic alternative, bringing players, coaches, and families together in a fun, highenergy atmosphere that truly celebrated the spirit of the game.
Western Challenge Cup Returns to Saskatchewan in 2025 for Elite Junior Ball Hockey Competition
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
From July 9 to 12, 2025, over 50 teams from across Western Canada will descend on Saskatoon, Martensville, and Warman for the return of one of the country’s longest running and most prestigious junior ball hockey events: the Western Challenge Cup (WCC).
The annual tournament will feature top-tier competition in four youth divisions, U11, U13, U15, and U17, with players battling for Western Canadian bragging rights and the coveted championship titles.
This event will take place at Merlis Belsher Place in Saskatoon, the Martensville Recreation Centre and the Warman Home Centre Communiplex.
More than just a tournament, the Western Challenge Cup serves as a scouting opportunity for players with aspirations of representing their country. Athletes will have the chance to catch the attention of selectors for Team Canada’s Junior Ball Hockey Teams, which compete at International Street and Ball Hockey Federation (ISBHF) events, including the U16 and U18 World Championships.
First held in 1999, the Western Challenge Cup was founded by minor ball hockey associations in British Columbia and Alberta. Today, it continues to be a cornerstone event for elite youth ball hockey players from BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
With fast-paced action, high-level skill, and a strong sense of community, the 2025 Western Challenge Cup is set to be another unforgettable chapter in Canadian ball hockey history.
Valley Soccer Association Announces 2025 Summer Camp Options
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Valley Soccer Association (VSA) recently announced their 2025 Summer Camps, designed to provide young athletes across the region with exciting, skill-building soccer opportunities throughout August.
Once again, VSA is focusing on variety and accessibility, offering multiple camp options tailored to meet the needs of players at various stages of development. With flexible schedules and expert instruction, there's something for every young soccer enthusiast.
The 2025 camps will run from August 5th to 28th at Arthur Neufeld Field in Warman and there are a variety of options available.
The VSA Grassroots Camp is aimed at younger players, and will provide a fun and supportive environment to learn the fundamentals of soccer. This camp takes place August 5, 6, 7 and 12, 13, 14 (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) and will cost $75 for 6 sessions over two weeks. U5 and U7 will take place from 6–7pm and U9 and U11 will be from 7-8pm.
The Valley United Soccer Club (VUSC) is offering Skills Camps that will be focused sessions, perfect for players looking to enhance their technique and tactical understanding. Week 1 will focus on Finishing and will take place August 19, 20, 21 and Week 2 will be Ball Mastery, taking place August 26, 27 and 28. The cost is $75/week or $125 for both weeks.
There will also be a VSA Summer Goalkeeper Camp, tailored specifically for U9–U15 players looking to strengthen their shot-stopping skills, improve ball distribution, and build confidence in game scenarios. This camp will take place August 18 and 25 from 6:30-7:30pm. The cost is $50 for both one-hour sessions. Space is limited, so be sure to register early to secure a spot.
Registration is now open for all summer camps. Families can sign up by visiting https://www.rampregistrations.com/login?v3=def01252b2 or going to the Valley Soccer Association Facebook page.
For additional details, please contact technical.director@valleysoccer.ca.
Whether your child is just starting out or looking to sharpen their skills for the next level, the VSA Summer Camps offer a fun, affordable, and supportive environment to grow their love of the game. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable summer of soccer!
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
New Pharmacy in Martensville Focuses on Customer Service
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The Grand Opening of the Co-op Pharmacy in Martensville, located inside the food store, was held on Tuesday, June 24, from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
The event consisted of a ribbon cutting and a chance to meet the team while enjoying cupcakes, fruit and beverages.
Participants had a chance to enter their food store draw with a chance to win a Summer Fun Gift Basket with picnic gear, sunscreen, Co-op treats and a $50 gift card.
“Our pharmacy team is excited to serve the Martensville community with trusted, quality care. From prescriptions and heart health to minor ailments and personalized advice, we’re here to support your health every step of the way,” Saskatoon Co-op shared on social media.
Pharmacy Assistant Marcy and Pharmacy Manager Azaad Kukha-Bryson. BELOW L-R: Tyler Dunn, Dawn Rietdijk, Karen Harilstad,Gord Bedient, Tania Schroeder, Azaad Kukha-Bryson, Gerald Hiebert, Mayor Kent Muench, and Dan Collier. (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)
If you're considering switching to their pharmacy services, the transition is made easy, the staff will take care of the process for you. They also offer a convenient pharmacy app, allowing you to log in from your smartphone to view your medication list and request prescription renewals. Additionally, an automated phone system is available, enabling you to enter your prescription number and request a renewal with ease.
The newly opened pharmacy will be open Monday to Friday from 9:00am9:00pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am – 6:00pm to take phone calls or walkins for people who need help with their prescriptions.
“We are really excited and want to help the community. Sometimes people don’t have family doctors and patients are sometimes suffering because they don’t have access and we hope that we can help to get their medications, give them friendly service, and get to know who they are,” said Pharmacy Manager, Azaad Kukha-Bryson.
Kukha-Bryson noted that they strive for top-notch customer service, and going the extra mile to get to know the customer.
“We have that opportunity right now as a new pharmacy to build our base and get a chance to do our best to help people feel at home and make sure they have the best care we can give.”
For more information, call 306-986-8368 or stop by the Co-op Pharmacy at 130 Centennial Drive North.
RIGHT:
Saskatchewan Healthy Beaches Water Quality Program Returns For Summer
Saskatchewan residents are now able to check the water quality at local beaches.
Starting this week, the Ministry of Health will begin posting the results of the Healthy Beaches program, which reports on the water quality at select recreational beaches across the province. Accurate information about water quality can provide protection to beachgoers who want a safe and enjoyable experience.
"Saskatchewan beaches are an important part of summer recreation for residents," Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. "The Healthy Beaches program provides valuable safety information, and we encourage residents and visitors to check the status of the beach they are visiting before they head out."
Water samples are collected and analyzed from June through August at various Saskatchewan public beaches including Regina Beach, Echo Lake and Pike Lake. Sampling is conducted to determine whether water quality meets the Canadian Recreational Water Guidelines. Water sampling began June 23 and results will be available later this week.
Results will be available on the Healthy Beaches Public Map. If water quality falls below acceptable safety standards advisories will be issued.
"The Healthy Beaches program is essential to public health," Saskatchewan's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. "This will help people make decisions about their in-water activities when visiting provincial lakes."
The public is encouraged to check the Healthy Beaches webpage before making summer plans and adhere to advisories. Residents are asked to report any concerns about water quality to their local Public Health Inspection office.
It is also important that residents follow notifications posted at the beach as closures can happen evenings or weekend and may not be immediately reflected on the website.
For more information about the Healthy Beaches program, including water quality reports and safety tips, visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/healthy-beaches.
Investor Alert: Impersonation Scam Uses Prime Minister Mark Carney's Image and Fake News Articles to Target Saskatchewan People
The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) is warning Saskatchewan people of an impersonation scam on social media using fake news articles claiming that Prime Minister Mark Carney is endorsing an online investment platform called InvestCanada and the trading platform BigProfitPulse.
"Always check the registration status of an entity at aretheyregistered.ca before you invest and do not deal with any unregistered entities," FCAA Securities Division Executive Director Dean Murrison said. "Scammers often create fake news articles to mimic legitimate media and try to get you to make an investment based on a notable figure endorsement."
InvestCanada claims to offer Saskatchewan residents trading on global financial markets.
BigProfitPulse claims to offer Saskatchewan residents trading opportunities, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities and indices.
This alert applies to the online entities using the websites "Investgov ca" and "BigProfitPulse io" (these URL's have been manually altered so as not to be interactive). InvestCanada and BigProfitPulse are not registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives in Saskatchewan. The FCAA cautions investors and consumers not to send money to companies that are not registered in Saskatchewan, as they may not be legitimate businesses.
If you have invested in InvestCanada, BigProfitPulse or anyone claiming to be acting on their behalf, contact the FCAA's Securities Division at 306-787-5936.
In Saskatchewan, individuals or companies need to be registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives. The registration provisions of The Securities Act, 1988, and accompanying regulations are intended to ensure that only honest and knowledgeable people are registered to sell securities and derivatives and that their businesses are financially stable.
Tips to protect yourself:
• Always verify that the person or company is registered in Saskatchewan to sell or advise about securities or derivatives. To check registration, visit the Canadian Securities Administrators' National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca.
• Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you understand how the investment, product, or service works.
• Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
• Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer
• Never make an investment decision based solely on a notable figure endorsement. Scammers often create fake news articles to mimic legitimate media.
Letter to the Editor
The Martensville Messenger welcomes letters to the editor for publication. Letters must be signed and a phone number and/or email address included so the writer’s identity can be verified. ALL letters are the opinion of the writer and NOT the Martensville Messenger. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with the current standards of public taste. Submit your letter to news@martensvillemessenger.ca or mail to Box 333Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.
Martensville Residents Learn to Fight Fraud at Community Info Night
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
A community event held in Martensville on Tuesday, June 24th brought together local residents, RCMP officers, and local bank representatives to raise awareness about the rising threat of scams and financial fraud targeting Canadians. The session aimed to equip people of all ages with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize and avoid becoming victims of increasingly sophisticated schemes.
Opening the discussion, Warman RCMP Staff Sgt. Jason Teniuk emphasized that fraud is a widespread issue affecting virtually everyone. “Everyone in this room has been touched by fraud in some way, whether targeted, scammed, or nearly tricked,” Teniuk said. The goal was clear: empower residents to protect themselves, their families, and their finances.
Teniuk outlined how fraud is evolving and spreading. Scams often originate from countries like Russia, Ukraine, China, Nigeria, India, and the Philippines, often funneling money through vaious banks and exchange organizations to make tracing and recovery difficult. The types of scams discussed included romance/friendship scams, prize fraud, service scams, cyber/ bitcoin fraud, phishing emails, fake investment opportunities and more.
In 2022, the local RCMP had a total of 150 reported frauds within their detachment area, with 2023 seeing 148. In 2024, there were 34,621 confirmed victims of fraud in Canada, totalling more than $638 million in losses.
“Fraud reports are alarmingly high and climbing,” S/Sgt. Teniuk explained. “This isn’t just an issue for seniors anymore, it affects people from all walks of life.”
Many victims, however, never report incidents due to embarrassment or uncertainty, leaving actual financial losses likely much higher than official figures show
The presentation shed light on common tactics scammers use to manipulate victims, such as creating false business transactions that seem legitimate, asking for prepayment on goods or services that never arrive, exploiting emotional or romantic connections to solicit money, leveraging legal loopholes and international borders to avoid prosecution.
RCMP members shared a story featured a man who operated a repair shop locally, and was accepting items and payment but never completed the work. Another involved a woman nearly defrauded out of $40,000 by an online scam, with quick intervention by police preventing the loss, although it was not an easy process.
Cross-border scams further complicate matters, especially when funds move through untraceable cryptocurrencies and international jurisdictions that don’t cooperate with Canadian authorities.
Community members were urged to be vigilant and proactive, with tips such as never send money or personal information to someone you haven’t met in person, question any urgent demands for payment or secrecy, verify businesses and individuals before engaging, report suspicious incidents to police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately and talk to trusted friends, family, or authorities when uncertain.
“If you’re suspicious, ask questions. Fraud thrives in silence,” the experts reminded attendees.
The event featured examples of common scams like romance scams that exploit trust over time to solicit funds for emergencies, the grandparent scams where fraudsters impersonate
relatives in distress demanding immediate money, fake lottery prize calls requiring “fees” to claim winnings, fraudulent service providers charging exorbitant fees or delivering subpar work, Canada Revenue Agency impersonators threatening arrest unless paid by gift cards and more.
To combat some scams, families were encouraged to establish safe-word passwords for verifying urgent requests.
The session concluded with a call for ongoing awareness and communication. “Scammers are always adapting,” Teniuk said. “But when our community is informed and connected, we can stop fraud before it starts.”
Residents were encouraged to stay alert, trust their instincts, verify suspicious contacts, and never hesitate to seek help. Through education and collective effort, the local RCMP hopes to build resilience against the evolving threat of fraud.
Some of the key takeaways from the meeting were to never share personal or financial information unless you are 100% certain that it is legitimate, take time to verify suspicious claims and that no emergency justifies making a hasty decision, recognize common scam tactics and red flags, speak up and report suspicious activity and help educate others.
Both RCMP and the bank representatives urged attendees to discuss what they learned with their loved ones and help educate others on how they can protect themselves and their finances from these ever-evolving scams.
Remember, if it sounds too good to be true....it is.
POLICE BEAT Saskatchewan RCMP Has
From 2014 to 2024, Saskatchewan RCMP saw an 81% increase in reports of fraud in the province. Statistics compiled by Saskatchewan RCMP crime analysts noted a 200% increase in reports of fraud greater than $5,000 and 335% increase in fraud related to theft, forgery and misuse of credit card during this period.
“The internet gives everyone instant access to information – including fraudsters who use it for financial gain. Our analysts examine fraud-related crime data to identify trends and patterns,” says Sgt. Lorna Dornstauder, an officer with the Saskatoon Provincial General Investigation Section.
"This information enables us to stay on top of emerging fraud trends in our jurisdiction and share valuable insights with the public so they don’t lose their hard-earned money to scams.”
Keep yourself and your loved ones safe - To keep yourself and your loved ones safe from fraud, education and proactive measures are key. Saskatchewan RCMP reminds members of the public to:
• Always be on high alert when you receive unsolicited communication of any kind. Especially when pressured to act quickly, something seems too good to be true or when receiving threats.
• Monitor your banking account regularly for any suspicious activity.
• Be careful; scammers can spoof telephone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a trusted source.
• Slow things down. Scammers create a sense of urgency when they call. If you are unsure if a phone call is a scam, hang up and reach out to your relative with a number you know and trust.
• Never agree to meet with someone who called you asking for money.
• Never give out personal information like your name, address, SIN or banking information over unsolicited calls or emails.
• If you are unsure if an incoming call is from your banking institution, a lawyer, police or a fraudster, hang up and call the agency back using a familiar phone number to confirm the information you were told is accurate.
• Don’t be afraid to say no! Don’t be intimidated by high-pressure sales tactics or requests to send money right away. Walk away or hang up the phone.
• Remember, anyone can become a victim of fraud – you are not alone. Fraudsters can be very convincing, they are relentless in achieving their goal, and they target people’s emotions and kindness.
“Fraud can happen to anyone and anywhere. By learning the signs of fraud, sharing that knowledge with your loved ones and reporting incidents, you can help protect others from becoming victims,” says Cst. Fines.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud, please contact your local police at 310RCMP. You can also report fraud by calling the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or through its website at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.
ABOVE: Warman RCMP S/Sgt. Jason Teniuk spoke to those that attended the June 24th Fraud Prevention meeting that was held in Martensville, providing examples of common scams and tips to help prevent becoming a victim of fraud. (Shanine Sealey/MM)
