An individual from Edmonton faces serious allegations of odometer fraud and inflated car sales. Police have charged the 39-year-old man, identified as Harmandeep Singh Bindra, with fraud and uttering a forged document. The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is seeking additional complainants who may have been affected by his actions.
Criminal Activities Overview
Bindra is accused of manipulating the odometers of used vehicles to increase their resale value. Investigators believe that since March 2025, he purchased several high-mileage cars through Facebook Marketplace. By rolling back the odometers by hundreds of thousands of kilometers, he sold these vehicles at inflated prices, often using false identities like Hary Smith and Harry Singh.
Method of Operation
- Purchased used cars, typically Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, and Honda CR-V models.
- Allegedly altered odometer readings using fake documentation.
- Offered bogus CARFAX reports to potential buyers as proof of lower mileage.
A complaint lodged on March 13, 2025, triggered the investigation when a buyer realized they had paid significantly more for a vehicle that appeared to have an altered odometer. Authorities subsequently identified Bindra as the primary suspect.
Police Recommendations for Vehicle Purchases
The EPS emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research prior to purchasing a used vehicle. Here are some recommendations for prospective buyers:
- Verify the seller’s proof of ownership and identification.
- Ensure the name matches between the seller’s ID and the vehicle’s registration.
- Keep a record of the seller’s driver’s license number and contact details.
- Obtain a vehicle information report from a registry agent or use online services like CARFAX.
- Look out for any inconsistencies in color or odometer readings.
- Confirm the vehicle’s registration history to avoid clones.
- Acquire a safety inspection from a certified vehicle inspection facility.
- Maintain detailed records of the transaction, including original bills of sale and service records.
Call for Victims to Come Forward
Authorities have thus far identified two complainants but suspect many others may be affected. Police are urging anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Bindra to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or through mobile at #377. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
Consumer protection is crucial, especially when purchasing a used vehicle. Staying informed and cautious can help potential buyers avoid falling prey to such scams.
