Calgary Couple Faces Multiple Charges in Elaborate Travel Fraud Operation
Calgary Police Service has announced the arrest and charging of a local husband and wife in connection with what authorities describe as a sophisticated fraudulent travel business operation. The investigation, which began in July 2025, has revealed a scheme that allegedly targeted victims across Canada and the Philippines, resulting in total losses estimated to exceed $200,000.
Details of the Alleged Fraud Scheme
According to police documents, the accused individuals operated under the business name I.N TravelPh, presenting themselves as legitimate travel agents. The investigation was initiated after a Calgary woman reported losing $1,900 when she attempted to book a vacation package through what she believed was a reputable travel service.
The victim had paid for what she thought was a confirmed vacation package, only to discover when contacting the resort directly that no reservation or payment had been received. Despite multiple attempts to obtain reimbursement from the agency, she was unable to recover her funds.
Expanding Investigation Reveals Multiple Victims
Police received additional complaints in August 2025 involving the same travel agent, with investigators noting a consistent pattern of fraudulent activity. In most cases, the alleged agent requested payment by e-transfer, but victims never received confirmation of their bookings or airfare after making payments.
Four of the confirmed victims are based in Calgary, with their combined losses totaling $17,000. However, the investigation suggests the fraudulent operation had a much broader reach, affecting individuals across multiple provinces and extending internationally to the Philippines.
Financial Analysis and Evidence Collection
Investigators conducted a thorough analysis of financial data associated with I.N TravelPh, leading them to believe that one of the accused's bank accounts was being used for both fraudulent transactions and money laundering activities.
On January 27, police executed a search warrant at a residence on 19 Avenue S.E. in Calgary, where they seized multiple electronic devices including two cellphones, three iPads, and a MacBook laptop. The evidence collected during this operation formed a crucial part of the case against the accused individuals.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The accused have been identified as Jamaica Salvador, 33, and Edrenz Lacaba, 30, both residents of Calgary. They face multiple serious charges related to their alleged fraudulent activities:
- Salvador has been charged with defrauding a person over $5,000, use of a forged document, and laundering proceeds of crime
- Lacaba faces charges of defrauding a person over $5,000 and laundering proceeds of crime
Both individuals are scheduled to make their first court appearance on April 7, where the details of the case will be presented before a judge.
Police Response and Public Warning
Calgary Police Services have emphasized the importance of vigilance when dealing with travel agencies and online booking services. They recommend that consumers verify the legitimacy of travel businesses before making payments and confirm reservations directly with hotels or resorts whenever possible.
Authorities are asking anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this or similar fraud schemes to come forward. Victims can contact Calgary Police at 403-266-1234 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477, online at the Crime Stoppers website, or through the P3 Tips mobile application.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating sophisticated financial crimes in the digital age, particularly those that cross international borders and exploit the trust of consumers seeking legitimate services.
