New Brunswick RCMP are speaking out amid recent reports of vigilantism in the Greater Moncton region.

Police have been made aware of a group of people posing as children to try and lure would-be suspects into committing criminal acts.

Mounties said they strongly discourage people from taking matters into their own hands, saying it puts them at risk of serious injury or worse.

In addition, police said they also risk compromising ongoing police investigations, evidence gathering, or future court proceedings.

RCMP said they understand residents might not always be aware of all the work they are doing but want residents to know that they are working diligently every day to ensure the safety of New Brunswick children.

The RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensic Section, Major Crime Unit, Further Investigation Team, and General Investigation Section are just some of the specialized units and teams that carry out investigations related to child exploitation.

Seventeen people were arrested in connection with child exploitation-related offences between April 2023 and April 2024 and 24 charges have been laid.