Winnipeg police have laid fraud charges against two people from Toronto suspected of travelling across the country selling counterfeit gold jewelry.

According to police, officers began investigating in February, when a 26-year-old man was approached by two people who said they were in need of money and were willing to sell their gold jewelry for cheap.

The man then bought several gold chains and rings and paid the pair $1,500.

He later found the jewelry was only worth about $20 and contacted police.

On Monday, police arrested two suspects at a hotel in the 1400 block of Niakwa Road.

A 34-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman from Toronto are now facing fraud charges.

Both remain in police custody.

In December, Winnipeg police warned the public not to buy gold on the street, as they had received numerous complaints about people being approached to buy jewelry.

Another public warning was issued in late February.