Ambleton and Dover: Marketplace Robberies Alarm Residents

CALGARY — Residents in Calgary’s Ambleton and Dover neighbourhoods are on high alert after two violent robberies linked to Facebook Marketplace transactions left victims injured and shaken. These incidents, occurring in November and December of 2025, have raised concerns about online transaction safety and the effectiveness of current preventative measures.

Online Marketplace Robberies Highlight Ongoing Safety Concerns

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) has confirmed two alarming robberies involving Facebook Marketplace transactions. On November 1, 2025, in Ambleton, a man was attacked by two males who stole an Apple iPhone. Just over a month later, on December 6, 2025, in Dover, a couple was assaulted with bear spray during an attempted laptop theft. Both incidents have been linked to the same teenage suspects, who have been charged but remain unnamed due to Youth Criminal Justice Act provisions. These events underscore a broader trend, with CPS highlighting that such crimes are not isolated incidents but part of a recurring challenge since 2015, when the issue was first identified. Despite the establishment of designated "Buy & Sell Zones" at District Offices, the efficacy of these measures remains unquantified.

Victims and Residents Demand More Action

Victims of the recent robberies, such as Jason and Nanh from Dover, have voiced their distress and the ongoing fear for their safety. Jason, who suffered injuries while protecting his wife, expressed skepticism about the safety measures in place, noting that the incidents are part of a citywide issue. Calgary Police Service's Inspector Jason Walker acknowledged the widespread nature of these crimes but provided little comfort to residents demanding more robust safety protocols. The absence of a comprehensive public report evaluating the "Buy & Sell Zones" initiative’s effectiveness has only fueled community concerns. Neither the Ambleton nor Dover Community Associations have publicly addressed these incidents, leaving residents feeling unsupported and calling for greater transparency and action from local authorities.

As the city grapples with these safety challenges, the 16-year-old suspect is set to appear in court on January 16, 2026, followed by the 17-year-old on January 30, 2026. Residents are eager for more decisive action and clearer data on the safety measures' impact, hoping for future policy adjustments that will ensure safer online transactions.