Increased Thefts & B&E's Bruce Ave. & 5th

Rash of thefts recently

Over the past two weeks there has been a spike in thefts and B&E’s in the vicinity of Bruce Ave and 5th St. Nearby neighbourhoods are also being targeted.  Since August 1^st, there have been several dozen thefts from vehicles, sheds and backyards reported.  During the same time, there were also 10 break and enters to homes. 

The City of Nanaimo crime map accurately reflects property related offences that occur not only in these areas, but throughout Nanaimo. Go to http://www.nanaimo.ca/crimereporting to see the affected areas.

Historically during July and August, communities experience an increase in crime. Primarily it is due to homes left unattended while homeowners are on vacation, tools and sheds left unlocked and vehicles parked at or near trail heads.

The following tips are provided to assist with your home and overall security:

• Always lock your doors and keep sheds locked. While you are in your backyard, criminals are coming in through your unlocked front door. A small lock on our shed can take away the opportunity for theft.
• Keep tools and equipment out of sight.  Criminals prefer the following items as they are easily carried away- lawnmowers, leaf blowers, grass cutters, small portable barbeques and bicycles. Keep them locked and out of sight. Register your bicycle at www.529garage.ca to assist in recovery in the event your bicycle is stolen.
• Mark all tools, equipment and house hold items - engrave a unique number (i.e. driver's license) on each item and take a picture of it. These small steps can make the difference between having to submit an insurance claim and having your property returned. Engravers are offered on loan from the front counter of the Nanaimo detachment or can be purchased at most retail stores for a reasonable price.
• Report all suspicious activity immediately to the police - many crimes occur during the day when homeowners are at work. If you see someone in your neighbourhood that is acting suspicious call the non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and report it. 

Suspicious behaviour can consist of – people peering into cars, walking onto properties, people going door to door, cars or persons on bikes moving very slowly through your neighbourhood. These are just some behaviours that may or may not be deemed suspicious. Trust your instincts to guide you.

If you have information on individuals involved in any of these property related offences, call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or Crime Stoppers at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com text 274637, keyword Nanaimo or call 1-800-222-8477.