A tip about a suspicious person has led to the arrest of a 37-year-old man believed responsible for multiple thefts from vehicles and boats in the Townsite Road area.
Police received a call at about 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, when a man reported a "shadowy figure" near The Palms Harbourside Marina at 1250 Stewart Ave.
RCMP officers recognized the suspect, who was wanted on several outstanding warrants. He was arrested after a short foot chase and when police checked his knapsack, they found a cellphone, TomTom GPS unit, cellphone chargers, credit cards and loose change – all believed to be stolen.
Police are recommending charges of possession of stolen property, possession of stolen credit cards, possession of break-in tools, possession of a weapon (knife) and theft under $5,000.
"This individual is believed responsible for a number of thefts from Stewart Avenue to Townsite Road," said Const. Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman. "Without the complainant taking the time to call, this individual would have continued his crime spree. This underscores the importance of calling as soon as you see suspicious behaviour."
People who live in the Townsite Road area who have unreported break-ins and missing items, chances are the Nanaimo RCMP have them. To inquire, please call Const. Rob Weaver at 250-754-2345.