An Internet Transaction Zone has been established by the Niagara Regional Police Service  in the 3 District  parking lot and lobby located at 5 Lincoln St in Welland. We suggest members of the public consider this as an option when arranging a location to conduct a Kijiji / Craigslist style transaction.

 Although the Niagara Regional Police recognizes they can't guarantee the quality or authenticity of items purchased online, the Service has a public parking lot and lobby where residents can meet to carry out purchases and sales of items.

Police Role

 Under normal circumstances there will be no Police intervention, they will not mediate private transactions, documentation or be a witness to a transaction. However, should one of the parties request an officer, one will respond. Officers will only intervene if the transaction becomes a criminal matter.

 Something else that citizens need to remember is that police cannot use the Police computer system to run model numbers, serial numbers, etc. of items that are part of a private exchange.

For officer and public safety please do not bring any firearms or weapons into the lobby of the Police station.

Internet Transaction Zone Goals

 Creating a zone in the police lobby and parking lot is really just about moving these transactions away from secluded parking lots or other areas they often occur and bring them to a public place. Creating a Transaction Zone to finalize online sales has become a growing trend in policing.

 General Transaction safety tips:

  •  Where possible communicate via email so that a record is kept
  • Insist to meet at a public place
  • Don't go alone.
  • Trust your instincts.
  • Do not invite strangers into your home, and do not go to theirs.
  • Be cautious when buying/selling high value items.
  • Perform the transaction during daylight hours.
  • If it sounds too good to be true, it normally is.
  • Tell a friend or family member about your intentions.
  • Take your cell phone with you.
  • Do not carry large sums of cash