UPDATE: Alleged bank robber nabbed

Robert John Paton left, along with what police believe are shots of him in banks in various forms of disguise.

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A suspected bank robber has been arrested in Surrey.

Surrey RCMP arrested Robert John Paton on Wednesday (Dec. 9) night without incident in the City Centre area of Surrey.

Police allege that he is responsible for several bank robberies throughout the region.

Paton is currently in custody facing outstanding robbery charges in Vancouver. Additional charges are expected to be laid against him for alleged bank robberies in the Metro Vancouver area, including Surrey, Langley and Burnaby.

Prior story:

Surrey Mounties are on the hunt for an alleged prolific bank robber, who has robbed several banks in the region.

Robert John Paton is wanted in connection with four robberies in Vancouver and is a suspect in a series of recent robberies in Surrey, Langley, and Burnaby.

Police are growing increasingly concerned, as authorities assert Paton may be using disguises, such as wigs and glasses and has allegedly threatened employees with violence.

He is described as a 32-year-old Caucasian male, approximately 6 feet, 200 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes. He is believed to be living in the City Centre area of Surrey.

"Although no one was injured during this recent robbery series, this individual is still considered dangerous due to his level of desperation,” said Surrey RCMP Cpl. Bert Paquet. “We do not expect him to stop committing these crimes.”

Paton has not been found guilty of these crimes in a court of law.

Police are warning the public not to attempt to contact, approach, or apprehend him.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP Robbery Section at 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers, at 1-800-222-8477.

For more information on how businesses can help minimize the impact of a robbery on their employees and customers please visit the Protect Yourself section of our website.

@diakiw