Cleanup of a Nanaimo homelessness encampment led to the return of $6,000 in specialized mountain climbing equipment to an owner who was unaware it had been stolen.
Police assisted community safety officers and other city workers in clearing out an encampment for those experiencing homelessness near the Millstone River on Wednesday, Aug. 9, according to a Nanaimo RCMP press release. During that time, “a large stash of outdoor camping gear” was found, which piqued the interest of police and the clean-up crew.
Vehicle registration information was located which enabled police to contact the owner of the equipment. The owner discovered that their vehicle window had been shattered and that the mountain-climbing gear was missing.
“The gear … was undamaged and promptly returned to the owner,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the press release.
Other property, including satellite communication equipment and clothing, were also found, although it could not be determined to whom they belonged, the press release noted.
“The Nanaimo RCMP bike unit is taking the lead in this investigation and are currently attempting to locate suspects and reunite the stolen items with their rightful owners,” O’Brien said. “As a footnote only, this is an excellent reminder to never leave valuable items in unattended vehicles.”
Anyone with further information is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
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