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Police warn public of rash of thefts

NANAIMO – Since May 28, 38 vehicles – 22 of those in the downtown core – have been broken into.

Since May 28, 38 vehicles – 22 of those in the downtown core – have been broken into, according to Nanaimo RCMP.

Many of the vehicles were in parkades or parked on side streets from Comox Road to Crace Street. Police say a number of them were unlocked, allowing thieves to easily steal the contents. Those that were locked had their windows smashed.

One suspect has been identified as a person of interest in the thefts. He is Caucasian, very thin and about 5’ 10” with a short blonde buzz cut. He has a large, protruding nose and was seen wearing light-coloured running shoes and blue jeans.

“If you park your car with valuables left out in plain sight, you run the risk of having them stolen,” said Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman. “Always lock your doors, place valuables in the trunk or take them with you. Also, if you see a person lurking or acting suspicious near parked cars, call the police immediately.”

Items thieves often target include GPS units, iPhones and other smartphones, laptops, loose change, sunglasses and small electronic devices.

Police are asking that anybody with information regarding the identity of the suspect or thefts, to call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or visit www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com.