The New Brunswick RCMP is asking for the public’s help with its investigation into incidents of online child luring and child pornography.
Oromocto RCMP received a report in December 2021 of a girl under the age of 16 who was befriended by an individual on Snapchat who went by the username “ik_ns21.”
Following an extensive investigation, two properties in Fredericton were searched by Oromocto RCMP, the New Brunswick RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit and Digital Forensic Services.
Mounties seized several electronic devices, including cellphones and laptops, from the two homes and two vehicles at the scenes.
Cpl. Stéphane Esculier of the New Brunswick RCMP said officers are looking to speak with anyone who had interactions with the user ‘ik_ns21’ on Snapchat.
Police are also investigating whether this incident is linked to other recent cases of child luring on social media in the area.
“You are not in trouble – we want to talk to you to gather information to support our investigation,” said Esculier in a news release.
“We need to know if there are other victims, so we can support you, and find those responsible.”
Mounties say anyone who may have interacted – either in person or online – with an individual using the Snapchat username “ik_ns21” should contact Oromocto RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
Esculier said officers are asking parents to talk to their children, especially if they are teenagers who use Snapchat.
“There are many resources available to parents to help them have conversations with their children about staying safe online,” said Esculier.
“If you suspect or know of any incidents of child luring or other concerning interactions with any usernames on social media, please contact police.”