A Facebook post alleging an abduction attempt made the rounds on local groups on Tuesday.

The incident is alleged to have taken place in the parking lot of an Okotoks store, where four men in a vehicle are said to have approached a woman and attempted to grab her.

The post is similar to several other posts that have circulated in the Calgary area over the last few months, which are often secondhand accounts of women being pursued by strangers, often in a retail environment.

RCMP has confirmed that no formal complaint was made relating to the incident and that the claim is unsubstantiated.

Cst. Anthony Thompson with the Calgary Police Service echoed the sentiment in a written statement posted on the same day.

"The Calgary Police Service is aware of posts circulating on social media alleging that women are being targeted for human trafficking purposes within the southern areas and neighbourhoods of our city. There is no evidence at this time to support these specific claims."

He continues, "Social media is an important tool when it comes to sharing information with Calgarians, especially information that is intended to keep citizens safe. However, CPS encourages mindful sharing of information by citizens on social media platforms to ensure it is factual. In some cases, unconfirmed information is distributed which can lead to the spread of misinformation and cause unnecessary alarm."

The post also recommends the purchase of pepper spray for self-defence in these situations.

A day prior, Cst. Thompson addressed the human trafficking posts, one of which also recommending the use of pepper spray, saying that carrying pepper spray is considered a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code.

Thompson says anyone who suspects human trafficking behaviour or activity to be taking place is asked to contact police, and anyone in immediate danger should call 911.

 

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